What materials are these figures made from?

The pieces are carved from various organic and mineral substances, most notably hardwoods, boxwood, and burr root wood. Other examples utilise soapstone, jade, agate, marble, and lacquer. Surfaces are frequently finished with painted pigments, gesso, or natural polishes that highlight the grain and texture of the material.

How do I identify the period of a carving?

Dating relies on examining the tool marks, the style of the base material, and stylistic markers associated with specific dynasties or eras such as the Qing Dynasty or the Meiji period. Patina accumulated through handling also offers clues to the age of wooden and stone surfaces. Comparative analysis with documented examples helps narrow down the production window to specific decades or centuries.

How were these figures displayed originally?

Many of these sculptures functioned as scholar's desk items, temple guards, or decorative ornaments within domestic interiors. Figures of immortals and deities were often placed in areas of honour to bring fortune or protection to a household. Larger statues stood independently on tables or altars, while smaller groupings formed part of curated collections of curiosities.

How should I care for wooden and stone carvings?

Wooden sculptures require stable indoor humidity levels to prevent the timber from splitting or warping over time. Dusting should be performed gently with a dry, soft brush without applying liquid polishes or modern cleaning agents. Stone and jade pieces benefit from similar care, keeping them away from direct sunlight and sudden temperature shifts to preserve their surface integrity.

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Hand Carved Oriental Figure

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When you handle a hand carved oriental figure, you hold pieces shaped from hardwood, root wood, and soapstone that carry centuries of regional craft.

A Very Interesting Japanese Wooden Carved Sculpture of a Geisha in the Nata-tsukuri Style.

19th century

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A Very Interesting Japanese Wooden Carved Sculpture of a Geisha in the Nata-tsukuri Style.

From Koos Limburg Jnr. Scotland

£750

3+ MONTHS AGO

sculptures

Exceptional Antique Chinese Root Wood Dogs of Fo

19th century

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Exceptional Antique Chinese Root Wood Dogs of Fo

From Branching Out Antiques

£1,650

3+ MONTHS AGO

sculptures

A Chinese Late 19th C Stone Carving of a Man Feeding Geese

1900 - 1920

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A Chinese Late 19th C Stone Carving of a Man Feeding Geese

From Robert Belcher Antiques

£375

3+ MONTHS AGO

sculptures

Chinese Burr Root Wood Carving of a Scholar Circa 1870

19th century

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Chinese Burr Root Wood Carving of a Scholar Circa 1870

From Robert Belcher Antiques

£2,750

3+ MONTHS AGO

sculptures

A Pair of Chinese Carved Hardwood Water Buffaloes Circa 1880

19th century

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A Pair of Chinese Carved Hardwood Water Buffaloes Circa 1880

From Robert Belcher Antiques

£1,450

3+ MONTHS AGO

sculptures

6 Very Old Carved Figures of Buddhist Immortals

18th century

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6 Very Old Carved Figures of Buddhist Immortals

From Elmgarden

£6,000

3+ MONTHS AGO

sculptures

19th century

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Japanese Tiger Wooden Sculpture

From Sinclairs Antiques and Interiors

£350

3+ MONTHS AGO

sculptures

Superb Quality Large Antique Carved Hardwood Chinese Figure

1900 - 1920

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Superb Quality Large Antique Carved Hardwood Chinese Figure

From Unique Antiques by Emma Jade

£1,085

3+ MONTHS AGO

sculptures

A Fine Chinese Carved Jade Figure of a Seated Buddha Late Ming to Early Qing Dynasty

Pre 16th century

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A Fine Chinese Carved Jade Figure of a Seated Buddha Late Ming to Early Qing Dynasty

From Sandbanks Antiques

£1,875

3+ MONTHS AGO

sculptures

Chinese Carved Wooden Panels / Plaques (X6). Circa 1850.

19th century

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Chinese Carved Wooden Panels / Plaques (X6). Circa 1850.

From Dragoncharger Antiques

£1,800

3+ MONTHS AGO

miscellaneous

Listings feature items spanning the eighteenth century through the 1930s, incorporating materials such as brass, soapstone, and lacquer alongside various hardwoods.