18th/early 19th c exceptionally crafted Shiwan stoneware figure of Arhat Damo Bodhidharma. A large size and well executed sculpture made in Shiwan area of China . This pottery has a long history of creation in the same area since the Han Dynasty. These figural portraits done in amazing detail have been created in large part of a major income source for hundreds of years but are known primarily through production done of commercial pieces during the republic period. These earlier versions are quite rare . Original polychrome, and details on his robe of grape leaves , holding grapes also goes back to Bacchanal Greek and Roman archetypes . Excellent condition and example of the type.
Measures : 18" x 15 "