Large Antique Chinese Carved Hardwood Budai Laughing Buddha Elephant Qing C.1900 44cm

Large Antique Chinese Carved Hardwood Budai Laughing Buddha with Elephant, Late Qing, c.1900

A substantial antique Chinese carved hardwood sculpture depicting Budai, the Laughing Buddha, reclining beside an elephant and displayed upon a separate pierced hardwood stand.

Probably dating to the late Qing / early Republic period, circa 1880–1910, the group measures approximately 44cm in length and has strong decorative and sculptural presence.

Budai is depicted with his characteristic jovial expression, rounded form and loosely draped robes, with inset eye and tooth details. Beside him is a carved elephant, retaining one inset eye/detail, while the corresponding inset on the opposite side is now absent.

A large carved fan rests across the foreground, while the composition sits upon a separately carved pierced stand worked in naturalistic root, rock and foliage forms.

The reverse and underside show extensive hand finishing, tool marks and age-related wear, supporting traditional carved construction rather than modern moulded production.

The timber has developed a deep dark brown-black patina with lighter wear to projecting areas. From photographs alone, it is best described conservatively as a dense Chinese hardwood, probably hongmu or rosewood-type, rather than assigned to a specific species with certainty.

Origin: China

Period: Late Qing / early Republic

Date: Probably circa 1880–1910

Subject: Budai / Laughing Buddha with elephant

Material: Dense carved hardwood, probably hongmu / rosewood-type

Construction: Main carved group on separate pierced hardwood stand

Length: Approx. 44cm

Depth: Approx. 21cm

Height: Approx. 21cm

Condition: Antique condition with significant age-related damage and losses, all of which are clearly shown in the photographs. There is a substantial old loss/break to the lower front robe/base area with exposed wood, cracking and separation around the lower structure, and multiple chips and losses to the pierced stand and projecting carved elements. One inset eye/detail to the elephant is missing. Further age splits, scratches, rubbing and smaller losses are present throughout, together with areas that may show old repair or historic movement. The piece remains highly decorative despite these faults. Please examine all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.

A large and characterful late-Qing Chinese hardwood carving with appealing reclining Budai composition, elephant companion and separate pierced stand.

About CKB LTD.

CKB LTD. was formed in 2010 and operates as an independent dealer, with a focus on carefully selected works offered through private sale and online platforms.

The company emphasizes informed attribution, clear descriptions, and responsible market practice. Objects are evaluated through visual examination, comparative research, and reference to established art-historical frameworks, with attention to condition, authenticity, and context.

CKB LTD. works with private collectors, dealers, and international buyers, and conducts transactions in accordance with standard international art market conventions. Each item is offered as a collectible work of art, with transparency regarding condition and attribution, and with respect for the nature of historical objects.

Condition, Attribution & Authenticity Notice

This work is offered as an antique object based on visual examination and comparative stylistic analysis. All statements regarding age, origin, attribution, and period represent informed scholarly opinion and are not guarantees of absolute fact.

Condition descriptions are based on external observation only. The interior, underside of the base, and any internal cavities or consecration materials have not been examined. No technical analysis (including XRF, thermoluminescence, or metallurgical testing) has been performed.

As is typical with antique bronzes, minor casting irregularities, surface wear, rubbing to high points, oxidation, and age-related imperfections are present and should be expected. No visible repairs or restorations are observed from the available views; however, the absence of hidden restorations cannot be guaranteed.

All items are sold as is, and prospective buyers are encouraged to examine the photographs carefully and request additional information prior to purchase. By bidding or purchasing, the buyer acknowledges acceptance of the item?s condition and the nature of antique works.

International Buyers ? Important Information

This item is an antique work of art over 100 years old and is sold as a collectible object. Buyers are responsible for any import duties, VAT, GST, customs fees, or local taxes imposed by their country.

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This work is offered in accordance with standard international art market practices.