Painted Stone Figure of Buddha, Pre-Ming Style
For higher-value objects, we encourage inquiries prior to purchase.
Additional photographs, close-up views, and condition details are available upon request, whenever possible.
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Collection
Sculpture & Religious Art
Period
Pre-Ming Style
Overview
A carved stone standing figure of Buddha, notable for its serene expression, attenuated proportions, and surviving traces of red and dark polychromy.
Description
This carved stone figure represents Buddha standing in a calm frontal pose, with a composed face, softly lowered gaze, and long robe falling in simple vertical planes. The figure is notable for its restrained elegance: the head is gently inclined, the features are smoothly modeled, and the body is conceived in a narrow, upright silhouette that gives the sculpture a quiet sense of spiritual dignity.
Particularly appealing is the surface, where traces of original pigment remain across the front and back. Areas of red and darkened coloration survive in weathered passages over the robe and upper body, suggesting the sculpture once formed part of a more vividly polychromed devotional setting. These remnants of painted decoration add historical depth to the work and create a compelling contrast with the pale stone ground and softened carved contours.
The figure is best appreciated not only as a religious image, but also as a fragment of early sculptural tradition in which simplicity of form and devotional presence take precedence over elaborate detail. Losses at the arms and wear across the surface do not diminish the work’s authority; rather, they contribute to its aged and contemplative character. This example is especially compelling for its surviving traces of color, serene expression, and strong vertical presence.
Details
Object Type: Religious Figure / Standing Figure of Buddha
Material: Carved stone with traces of polychromy
Subject: Standing Buddha
Height: 74 cm
Origin: China
Condition
Presented in aged and fragmentary condition, with losses to the arms and hands, surface wear, abrasions, and weathering consistent with carved stone sculpture of this type. Traces of red and dark pigment remain visible on the surface and contribute to the historical character of the piece.
Authenticity & Attribution Note
This sculpture is offered as a work in pre-Ming style. The attribution is based on material, surviving polychromy, iconographic features, carved form, and comparative visual judgment, and should be understood as stylistic rather than as an absolute guarantee of precise date, workshop, or original temple context.
We are happy to provide additional photographs, closer views, and condition details whenever possible. Serious inquiries are always welcome.