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A rare and impressive antique Chinese cast iron standing Luohan figure with gilt and polychrome lacquer, dating to the Qing dynasty (1644–1912). The figure stands approximately 18 inches in height on a carved double lotus base — a substantial and commanding temple-quality piece.
The figure depicts Ananda (阿難) — the Buddha's closest personal attendant and one of the most venerated figures in Chinese Buddhism — portrayed in the classic convention as a youthful shaved-head monk in simple monastic robes, hands clasped before him holding a small reliquary vessel, eyes downcast in a serene expression of devotion and compassion.
The figure is cast in iron — a material used throughout Chinese history for significant temple commissions where durability and permanence were paramount. The surface is treated with multiple layers of lacquer: a deep red-brown lacquer ground covers the robes, while the face, hands, and chest are gilt in gold, creating the striking two-tone effect visible throughout. The natural flaking and loss of the lacquer surface reveals the iron beneath and is entirely consistent with centuries of age.
The double lotus base with deeply carved individual petals is a hallmark of quality Buddhist figure production. The interior of the base retains its original sand casting core — the mould material used in traditional Chinese piece-mould iron casting — providing compelling physical evidence of the figure's authentic period production.
A striking and genuinely historic piece of Chinese Buddhist devotional art — made for veneration, not decoration.
| Item Details |
| Origin |
China |
| Period |
Qing Dynasty, c.1644–1912 |
| Subject |
Ananda — Standing Luohan / Buddhist Monk |
| Material |
Cast iron with polychrome lacquer and gilt |
| Lacquer |
Red-brown ground with gold gilt on face, hands & chest |
| Base |
Double lotus — deeply carved individual petals |
| Height |
Approximately 18–20 inches |
| Interior |
Original sand casting core retained — period authentication |
| Origin Type |
Temple devotional figure |
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Authentication — Original Casting Core
The interior of the base retains the original sand and loam casting core used in traditional Chinese piece-mould iron casting. This material shows advanced organic decomposition and deep iron oxide corrosion consistent with several centuries of age. The casting core is one of the most reliable physical indicators of authentic period production — it cannot be convincingly replicated in modern reproductions.
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About Ananda & Cast Iron Buddhist Figures
Ananda was the Buddha's personal attendant for 25 years and is among the most venerated figures in Chinese Buddhism. Cast iron was used for significant temple commissions throughout the Ming and Qing dynasties — iron's extreme durability made it ideal for figures intended for permanent temple installation. The combination of cast iron construction with polychrome lacquer and gilt is a well-documented tradition in northern Chinese Buddhist art.
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Condition
Please examine all photographs carefully before purchasing. Significant lacquer loss and flaking throughout — consistent with and expected for a piece of this age and temple origin. Gold gilt retained on face, hands, and chest. Red lacquer ground visible throughout robes. Iron structurally sound. Original casting core intact in base interior. Sold as shown — additional photographs available upon request.
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Search Terms
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