Ivory Figure of Shou Xing, China, Late Qing–Early Republic, 1900–1930

Finely carved Chinese ivory figure depicting Shou Xing, the God of Longevity and one of the revered Three Star Gods Sanxing. Shou Xing is represented standing in flowing scholar’s robes, characterized by his elongated domed forehead symbolizing wisdom and long life. In his right hand he holds the peach of immortality, symbol of eternal life, while his left hand grasps a tall staff surmounted by a dragon head and a tied gourd, traditional attributes associated with protection, vitality and spiritual endurance. The facial expression is serene and benevolent, the beard finely incised, and the drapery rendered with elegant, naturalistic folds. The carving displays careful attention to anatomical proportion and robe movement, with subtle surface polish and soft age patina consistent with Early 20th Century Chinese workshop production. The staff carving and facial detailing are slightly more pronounced than on the companion figures, emphasizing Shou Xing’s role within the triad as the embodiment of longevity. The figure is mounted on a fixed carved wooden base and housed in its original blue fabric-lined presentation box, indicating early Western collection context. This sculpture represents one figure from a complete Fu Lu Shou set, traditionally displayed together but here offered individually.

Overall very good and intact condition; no visible losses or restorations; natural age patina; minor surface wear consistent with handling and age; a numbered sticker present on the underside of the base, and old chalk inventory number visible on the side of presentation box.

Figure height incl. base 22.5 cm; box 27.5×12.5 cm.

Material: Ivory, wood.

From an old Austrian private collection, acquired early 1950 at Dorotheum in Vienna.

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