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Antiques! => Antique Questions Forum => Topic started by: mlandsberg on May 20, 2013, 04:04:08 PM

Title: Chinese Immortal
Post by: mlandsberg on May 20, 2013, 04:04:08 PM

I know this is a Chinese immortal, it is wood, and about 20" tall.

I would like to know how old it is, what does the tag on the bottom say about the piece, what kind of wood is it, what is the hole in top of the statue for, and how much is it worth?  The only blemish is small chip in the back about half the size of a penny.

Thanks in advance

Title: Re: Chinese Immortal
Post by: Ipcress on May 20, 2013, 05:08:35 PM

Early 20th to early mid 20th, usually a hardwood or cherrywood if more ornate, the label is most likely for shipping / manufacture and not especially relevant
Not necessarily an immortal, which is a generic term for most people but specific in Chinese mythology. Shou Lao is a popular figure for these. The god of life and longevity, holds a staff in one hand and a peach on the other, usually has a crane at his feet. They usually represent life, health etc as they are presented as gifts.

Value for this would be 20-50 pounds in my opinion.

Title: Re: Chinese Immortal
Post by: mlandsberg on May 20, 2013, 05:17:33 PM

Ok so what is the hole at the top?

Title: Re: Chinese Immortal
Post by: Ipcress on May 20, 2013, 05:34:27 PM

They were sometimes sectional so most likely a piece that has gone missing - sometimes they would have a small animal, even a young child, balancing on a box or staff.

Title: Re: Chinese Immortal
Post by: frogpatch on May 20, 2013, 07:07:15 PM

Typical of an item brought home from the Orient in the 50 by service people of merchant seaman.

Title: Re: Chinese Immortal
Post by: mart on May 20, 2013, 08:59:10 PM

Items like this are pretty common in that part of the world !!  Many do very intricate carvings as a cottage industry !!  Its how they make a living !!