A RARE BAMBOO 'BUDAI AND CHILDREN' GROUP

17th/18th century

Footnotes

十七/十八世紀 竹雕布袋像

Provenance: Bluett & Sons Ltd., London (label)

來源： 倫敦古董商Bluett & Sons Ltd.（據標籤）

The present carving exemplifies the extraordinary skill of 17th and 18th century bamboo artisans, who transformed the naturally rigid material into works of remarkable fluidity and grace. The crafstman has masterfully rendered the cascading folds of Budai's robes, which appear almost weightless as they drape around his corpulent form. The children's expressions radiate joy and mischief, their small limbs twisting and reaching with a sense of movement that animates the scene. This interplay of dynamic figures and intricate detailing captures the warmth and exuberance of Budai's benevolent spirit, making it a truly outstanding example of Qing dynasty bamboo carving at its finest.

The monk Budai (布袋), whose name means 'cloth bag', is widely regarded as an incarnation of the Bodhisattva Maitreya, the Buddha destined to succeed Gautama Buddha in the future. Though often misunderstood in the West as the Buddha himself, Budai is instead a folkloric figure celebrated for his benevolence, generosity, and carefree nature. He is instantly recognisable by his jovial expression and the loose-fitting robes that fall open to reveal his ample belly—a symbol of contentment and abundance. Budai's association with the protection and well-being of children is a central theme in his iconography, and he is frequently depicted with playful boys clambering over him, tugging at his robes, or nestling in the folds of his garments.

Compare with a bamboo-root carving of five children playing with Maitreya, late Ming dynasty, illustrated in Literati Spirit: Art of Chinese Bamboo Carving, Shanghai, 2012, p.27, no.2. Another related carved bamboo figure of Budai, late Ming dynasty, is illustrated by S.Kwan, Ming and Qing Bamboo, Hong Kong, 2000, pp.156-157. See also a related bamboo carving of Budai, 18th century, illustrated by Ip Yee and L.C.S.Tam, Chinese Bamboo Carving, vol.I, Hong Kong, 1978, p.400, no.133.