TAIWAN Gwanying Goddess Mother - Madera - China

Antique Taiwanese Gilt Wood Seated Guanyin (觀音菩薩) on Lotus Throne, Late Qing–Early Japanese Period, c. 1880–1915

Description

A finely carved antique Taiwanese wooden figure of Guanyin (Avalokiteśvara) seated in meditation upon a lotus throne, dating to the Late Qing Dynasty–Early Japanese Period (c. 1880–1915).

Carved from a single block of wood, the sculpture retains significant traces of its original gold leaf and red lacquer, particularly along the reverse of the veil, shoulders, lotus pedestal, and recessed areas of the robes. Centuries of devotional use have resulted in extensive natural surface wear, revealing the underlying wood while preserving scattered areas of original gilding that create an attractive contrast between exposed timber and surviving decoration.

Guanyin is portrayed seated in a tranquil meditative posture with folded legs upon a double lotus throne. The figure displays a serene expression with gently lowered eyes, softly modeled lips, and a full rounded face characteristic of traditional Taiwanese folk Buddhist carving. The robes fall in broad, confident folds while the high chignon and flowing veil frame the face with restrained elegance.

The reverse preserves particularly attractive remnants of the original decorative scheme, where gold leaf survives beneath red painted outlining, illustrating the traditional method of applying gilding over red bole. These surviving areas provide valuable evidence of the statue's original appearance before centuries of natural wear.

The underside displays extensive hand-tool marks, natural shrinkage cracks, and long-term oxidation consistent with traditional hand carving and considerable age. The sculpture shows no evidence of modern machine work or recent manufacture.

Unlike heavily restored examples, this figure remains untouched, preserving its original devotional character. Losses to the gilding, exposed wood, age cracks, and surface abrasion are entirely consistent with prolonged temple or household worship and contribute to its authenticity rather than detract from it.

A charming and honest example of traditional Taiwanese Buddhist sculpture that beautifully illustrates the transition from richly gilded devotional image to naturally aged hardwood through generations of religious use.

Conditions of Sale

By placing a bid, the buyer enters into a binding contract and agrees to the following terms:

1. Shipment, Delivery & Risk

Delivery obligations are fulfilled upon transfer of the lot to a professional carrier for shipment to the address provided through the Catawiki platform. Official carrier tracking records, including delivery confirmation, delivery attempts, customs notifications, and status updates, constitute conclusive evidence of shipment and delivery progress. Risk transfers to the buyer upon dispatch. Claims of non-receipt that contradict carrier tracking confirmation will not invalidate the transaction.

2. Customs, Refusal & Contract Termination

All import duties, VAT, customs clearance fees, brokerage charges, and related governmental assessments are solely the buyer’s responsibility. Refusal to accept delivery for any reason — including refusal to pay customs duties or import charges — constitutes:

• Voluntary refusal of performance
• Material breach of contract
• Immediate termination of the sale in favor of the seller

In such cases, the seller reserves the right to:

• Request full payment release from Catawiki
• Recover all return shipping fees, storage fees, administrative charges, carrier penalties, and related costs
• Apply a reasonable restocking fee where permitted
• Decline any obligation to reship the lot

Returned parcels caused by refusal, non-payment of customs, failure to collect, or incorrect address remain entirely at the buyer’s risk and expense.

3. Condition & Description

All lots are sold “as is” and “as photographed.”

Photographs form part of the description and accurately represent visible condition at the time of listing.

Age-related wear, patina, oxidation, glaze variation, craquelure, firing marks, surface irregularities, minor losses, restorations, manufacturing variations, and material inconsistencies are inherent characteristics of antique, vintage, and collectible objects across all categories and do not constitute defects. The absence of reference to condition issues does not imply perfect condition. No warranty is made that any lot is free from restoration, repair, alteration, or replacement unless expressly stated in writing.

4. Attribution & Opinion

Any statement regarding age, origin, period, maker, material, cultural attribution, or historical context reflects informed opinion based on experience and research. Such statements are not guarantees or warranties. Differences in scholarly opinion, stylistic interpretation, market reassessment, or third-party evaluation do not constitute grounds for cancellation, dispute, or refund.

5. We pride ourselves on taking the time to pack well, however that does not reduce the risk of damage or breakage to absolute zero. Bidding is with accepting this.

By bidding, the buyer acknowledges full acceptance of these Conditions of Sale.