清 水晶佛像|Buddha

Art Historical Context

This exquisite rock crystal sculpture of a Buddha, standing just 3⅝ inches (9.2 cm) tall, captures the serene essence of Chinese Buddhist devotion from the Qing dynasty (1644–1), though dated to the 20th centurylikely a late imperial or transitional piece. Carved from translucent rock crystal, a prized hardstone revered for its clarity and purity symbolizing enlightenment, the figure embodies the technical mastery of Chinese lapidary artists. Its small scale suggests it was a personal amulet or altar piece, portable for meditation or protection. In Qing-era China, Buddhism flourished alongsid...