Chinese Antique Ivory Carving
Shakyamuni Buddha
As Ascetic Practicing Austerities
Dated: Qianlong Reign, Qing, circa: 1735-1795
H 5 in.(12.7cm), W 3 in.(7.5cm), D 2.5 in.(6.3cm)
Measurement Excluded Wood Base

The ivory statue depicts Prince Siddhartha at a time he was practicing asceticism in the land of Magadha. During this time, he rigorously engaged in meditation without food, consumed only a few seeds and water from the near by banks of the Nairanjana River. After six years, Siddhartha remained unable to attain his goal. Then one day, he went bathing in the river and accepted a rice ball from the hand of Sujata, a maiden who belonged to the untouchable caste, and came to the realization that severe asceticism can only wear out the body, thus depriving the strength he needed to attain the path to enlightenment.

A profound story told elegantly by a master carver. This skin and bone figure of Shakyamuni is finely realized in a realism unique in the Qing style. The image of Shakyamuni is in exhaustion, yet his facial expression reveals a kindly and spirited realization, which is likely portrayed through an inspired Buddhist carver. The statue is carved from a single piece of quality ivory. It has a cream white patina, a golden tint of yellow in the back of the figure, and a few small hair lines typical of its age.

Private Collection

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