Description

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Height: 10 inches (25.4cm)

Width: 3 ¾  inches (9.25cm)

Depth: 3 ¾ inches (9.35cm)

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Provenance

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Object of devotion at private shrine in Singapore, before 2023

Acquired and deconsecrated by Say Tian Hng Buddha Shop​, 2023

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Catalogue note

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This figure depicts the mischievous and rebellious child deity Nezha, a beloved character of Chinese mythology whose story has been celebrated and retold over over millennia through devotion, literature, cinema and pop culture.

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Like a child, he is depicted barefoot, with ringed ankles and wrists. Instead of armour, he is clad in a thin bareback Chinese undergarment, with motifs of lotus flower petals symbolising rebirth. His hair is fashioned simply: two topknots with pretty red ribbons.

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But in his hands, Nezha wields a long, powerful Fire-Tipped Spear (火尖枪) and his left foot is perched nimbly on a spinning, multi-coloured Wind Fire Wheel (风火轮) that carries him across the universe at great speeds. His narrow, focused eyes and small, pursed mouth convey defiance, almost arrogance.

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The figure is carved in a dynamic posture, with body weight subtly resting on the back foot and torso turned sideways. His arms are locked and ready for combat. The figure is set upon an octagonal, tiered pedestal adorned with carved panels. A magic sash, seeming wafting in the celestial breeze, provides an elegant frame for the figure.

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The former custodian of the figure has lovingly adorned it with a necklace in the form of a tinkling anklet of bells, traditionally used to welcome mortal newborns.​

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Condition report

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Rich aged patina consistent with long-term devotion and no structural defects. This figure retains shades of its original gilt and vibrant paint pigment, with minor surface wear commensurate with age.​

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Community giving

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Part of the sale proceeds will be donated to temples in Singapore where Nezha is venerated, to support community activities for devotees.

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