Bamboo Grove - Antique Asian Art - Specializing in Chinese and Japanese

CHINESE IVORY CARVING OF A SAGE

CHINESE IVORY CARVING OF A SAGE


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Directory: Antiques: Regional Art: Asian: Chinese: Ivory: Pre 1910: Item # 1171813

Please refer to our stock # 3475 when inquiring.
Bamboo Grove
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Ann Arbor
Michigan


Guest Book
  
$2600.00

This rare and unusual ivory carving of a sage is an early 20th century product. It is 10” high (with fitted hard wood base, it is 11” high), 3 ½” wide and 3” thick both measured from bottom. This image is the great Chinese herbalist and acupuncturist Li Shi-Zhen (李 時 珍, 1518~1593). Li Shi-Zhen is considered to be one of the greatest naturalists in China. He was interested in the proper classification and use of herbs. His major contribution to Chinese medicine was his book “Bencao Gangmu” (本 草 纲 目). This book includes the different types, forms, flavors, nature and applications of thousands of herbs. Even today, people who are interested in Chinese herbal medicine use the book as an important reference book. This statue of Li Shi-Zhen depicts him ready to travel to seek more herbs. His right hand holds an umbrella while his left hand is resting on his smiling young helper who is holding a peach branch. A medicine box is setting near him. Aside from some small hair line cracks due to the age of the piece, it is in great condition.