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All auctions / Asian Art / Chinese Wood God of Wealth Figure / Wealth Bag, Qing Dynasty
East Asia, China, Qing Dynasty, ca. 18th century CE. A hand-carved wooden figure of the Chinese God of Wealth, polychromed, seated in ceremonial robes atop an integral pedestal base. Carved from a single block of wood, the figure was likely intended for a home or temple altar, serving as an object of veneration. The god is shown in a formal pose, with garments falling in deeply incised folds, hands concealed within layered sleeves as he clasps a wealth bag, a symbol of abundance and good fortune. His face features full cheeks, a strong brow, and a moustache. He wears a traditional official's cap, with remnants of red, green, yellow, white, and black pigment across the surface. Size: 8.8" L x 5.5" W x 19" H (22.4 cm x 14 cm x 48.3 cm) This figure represents one of the Caishen, or Wealth Gods, of Chinese tradition - a diverse group of deities associated with wealth, prosperity, and fortune. Seated on a high platform and holding a wealth or money bag - believed to contain riches in the form of gold, silver, coins, or other precious materials - this carving would have served as a powerful symbol of financial blessing. These figures were extremely popular in Taoism and Chinese folk religions and were frequently found in homes and on domestic altars, where devotees prayed for wealth accumulation, good luck, abundance, and protection of their assets. Wealth Gods were especially entreated during the Lunar New Year to bring prosperity in the coming year and to safeguard what one already possessed. Their images were not merely decorative but believed to act as spiritual intermediaries. Through consecration rituals, they were imbued with divine presence and venerated as active participants in the household’s fortune and well-being. Item # 192372
Estimate:$400
To the auctionView all items fromArtemis Fine ArtsorAsian Art
Estimate:
$400
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