Lot #420: Chinese Hardwood Fine Carving Sculpture Boy Riding Water Buffalo

Traditional Chinese hardwood sculpture depicting a boy riding a water buffalo. These intricate carvings are highly recognizable Asian folk art pieces, typically hand-carved from dense, dark tropical hardwoods like rosewood or mahogany.Artistry and SymbolismThe Theme: The imagery of a young boy or herd-boy (often playing a flute) riding on the back of an ox or water buffalo is deeply rooted in Zen / Chan Buddhist metaphors. It represents the "Ten Bulls" story, which serves as a step-by-step allegory for taming the mind, overcoming worldly attachments, and progressing toward spiritual enlightenment.Craftsmanship Details: High-quality versions of these carvings boast realistic muscular details on the animal, finely draped clothing on the figure, and are often set on custom-fitted pierced wooden bases that simulate swirling clouds, water, or rocky ground. Some premium antique examples from the late 19th or early 20th century even feature specialized details like porcelain/bone teeth or glass-inlaid eyes. Dimensions: - Pickup category timeslot {A}