A soapstone sculpture of the Chinese bearded sage Lao Tzu with staff and scrolls (one partially unfurled from the dragon form staff-head and one tied to his belt.) Engraved cloud decoration on the robe and on the hood over curly locks on the figure's high forehead. Three rather tame looking qilin rest at the figure's feet, looking to the sage - two with a heavenly cloud wisp issuing from their mouths indicating they are not of this world and emphasizing the suggestion of longevity. All hand carved from one piece with attention to detail and graceful lines and folds. Lao Tzu historically being the keeper of records for the Zhou court (among other feats of public service he is credited with), the figure is fitting to the scholar context of the genre. For best indication of color, refer to our second and third illustrations (the other pictures reflecting too much warmth of color from our lighting.) Rather good condition with very light wear including 'flea bites' on the figure's sleeve and the end of the scroll tied to belt (visible in our illustrations.) Height: 7 7/8 inches (20cm). We acquired this from an associate dealer in mainly western decorative arts in the 90's and have enjoyed it in our own collection since.

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