This Chinese, Ming dynasty figure of Dizang (in Sanskrit, Ksitigarbha), often depicted as a monk, is cast in iron. Details are finely carved into the surface including decoration of the lotus base, trim and elements of the jiāshā (robe), and the figure's facial features. At least three small iron pins and one pin hole remain at inconspicuous points, attesting to the casting process (look for these in the last two enlargement images). As it is iron, there is an even coarseness to the surface which would have been anticipated, and intended, by the artisans. An inconspicuous stress line behind the fold of the right sleeve probably coincides with the casting. It is in good condition with no corrosion and with a coarse, natural ferrous patina. Height, 10 3/4 inches. Ex Robert K. Berg collection, Ex Peter L. Rosenberg collection, Ex Robert K. Berg collection (having been reacquired from the estate of Peter Rosenberg, Vallin Galleries)

This life sized Chinese cast iron head of Buddha features a relaxed, benevolent expression with downcast gaze consistent with the introspective Southern Song dynasty and is probably from the period. The elongated ears are unadorned though each appearing to retain a small pin from the casting process. The hair, with part at the forehead, is consistent with earlier castings of Buddha from the Song dynasty and features evenly spaced whorls instead of tightly arranged curls. A seam (consistent with the casting process) separates front from back, an opening from the time of casting appears at the top (uncertain whether a relic of the process or intended for some decorative or functional use), and a small opening appears centered low on the back (probably a relic of the casting). An old stress line appears on the back between neck and head from behind the right ear to the left front neckline. An old opening, apparently dating from the casting, appears along the old stress line. As these larger figures were cast in parts and subsequently assembled, it is unclear if the "stress line" relates (at least along the back neckline) to this method. The natural, ferrous patina includes weathering of the surface - the coarse texture being part of the charm of such iron sculpture. The whole is in stable condition, the uneven edge at bottom of the neck resting tightly in a 19th century custom fitted hardwood stand - fitted later to a tall, tapered display plinth of square section. The head, from the bottom of the antique rosewood stand to the top of the ushnisha (cranial protuberance symbolizing spiritual attainment), measures about 14 inches. The later display plinth adds another 10 1/8 inches (so 24 1/8 inches display height).

A finely carved Suzhou school agate snuff bottle. Decoration of figures, picked out from natural colors of the stone, in landscape of hilly bluffs with overhanging pine and whispy cloud. Based on the gourd in the sash of the larger figure - possibly depicting the immortal, Le Tieguai. Nicely defined foot rim. The top rim with broad, just slightly concave surface. Very well hollowed. Height of bottle without cap, 2 5/8 inches. Height with cap, 3 1/8 inches. Excellent condition of the bottle.

The top is also in good condition but the bone spoon is a bit short and wrapped tape keeps a snug fit to the bottle. The top may be a replacement.

A pair of boldly carved pale blue peking glass vases. Birds in flowering branches. Good condition. Height, eight inches. Early 20th century, Republican era.

A large Yuan dynasty bronze vase of square sectioned, baluster form. Chased taotie dragon on leiwen ground decoration. Phalange protrusions in the corners. A pair of loop handles issuing from dragon heads flanking the long, waisted neck. 14th century. The bottom, inside the raised foot, replaced. Otherwise good condition. Height measurement coming

A Chinese sancai (three color) decorated biscuit figure of Li Bai - an historical Chinese poet of the Tang dynasty. The colors, on famille verte palette, adorn the figure in repose, leaning on a wine pot. The group functions as a brush washer that would have been used on a scholar’s table (appropriate to the subject). Probably Kangxi period - late 17th century. With later stand. Length, at longest span, about 6 inches. Condition is good for the period and intended use, with only a small chip on the wine pot and on the end of an object (probably a brush case) in his right hand.

A good Chinese boxwood carving of Budai. Three children clamor over him. A bat appears on his right hand. Bone and horn inlays detail his eyes and teeth. Rich, mellow old patina. Nice grain figure in places. Late Qing to early Republic. Ca 1900. Very good condition with typical minor distress checks in the old hardwood surface. Remnants of old label. Height, about 4 5/8 inches high.

A fine, small, late Qing dynasty agate snuff bottle. Mostly shades of white with subtle warm earth tones appearing within variegated structure. Well defined foot, very slightly concave top, well hollowed interior. A malachite stopper top. Ex Don Elder. 2 inches high bottke only, 2 1/2 inches with the stopper

A good, Chinese moss agate snuff bottle. Color variegation ranges from from a milky pale aubergine to a dark mossy green with areas of earthy red inclusion and structure. Natural, pleasant, minute pits appearing lightly placed on the surface. Ever so slightly convex, level foot. Similar concavity to the top. Light green quartz stopper. Bottle height, nearly 2 1/4 inches. With stopper, 2 3/4 inches.

Small Chinese Bi-form white jade ornament in the Mughal manner with cupped chrysanthemum petals in three, concentric, graduated circles surrounding a cross-hatched, pierced center. The flat verso cupped slightly toward the face along the rim, with small drilling (exhibiting hand craftsmanship) either side of the central aperture and with the surface exhibiting natural texture of the hand worked surface. Qing dynasty. Good condition. Diameter 2 1/8 inches.

Four Chinese blue and white porcelain wine cups. Each with double ring around the rim, crane motif three times around the circumference, single ring atop raised foot, and mark on the base. Slightly sugary, opaque glaze associated with Kangxi production. Certainly Qing dynasty. Three in good condition. One with crack from rim. Each, diameter about 2 7/8 inches and height about 2 1/8 inches.

A finely decorated Chinese famille verte porcelain plaque. Exuberant and well decorated scene of figures in architectural and garden landscape, surrounded by a band of flower, bird and precious objects adorned reserves. An inscription on the verso. Originally a component in a chair, stool, table or screen, now entirely useful as a trivet or decoration (or perhaps to complete a rare early furniture item in need of an inset). 18th century. Good condition, with some glaze wear or fritting around the rim. 13 3/4 inches diameter.