Antiques, Collectables, Curios, Tin Toys, Troika, Bronze, Silver, Books , Suzie Cooper, Model Trains and much more.

Antique Chinese Carved Hardwood Water Buffalo Group with Boys on Fitted Stand

The auction will start in __ days and __ hours

Start price: £45

Estimated price: £45

Auction house commission:

Description

An antique Chinese dark hardwood sculptural group depicting a recumbent water buffalo with two boys clambering upon its back. The buffalo is realistically rendered with fine, incised linear details representing hair and features inset glass eyes and inlaid bone or ivory-substitute teeth. The two figures of boys are depicted in joyful poses with traditional hairstyles. The sculpture is accompanied by a separate, intricately carved and pierced openwork hardwood stand featuring scrolling foliate, floral, and cloud-like motifs. This type of carving is characteristic of Chinese regional woodworking from the late 19th to early 20th centuries, often produced for the export market. The subject matter of children riding a water buffalo is a traditional motif in Chinese art, frequently symbolising rural tranquillity. No marks or signatures are present.

Length: Approximately 34-35 cm
Height: Approximately 16-18 cm.


Condition report:

The piece appears to be in generally good condition, commensurate with its age. There is visible white residue in the deeper carved crevices of the figures and the buffalo head, likely from historical applications of wax or furniture polish. Minor surface wear and natural drying cracks (shakes) inherent to the material are present. The base appears structurally sound with no significant losses noted to the openwork carving.