清 壽山石雕靜坐羅漢|Seated luohan holding a book

Art Historical Context

Nestled in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Asian Art collection, this exquisite18th-century Qing dynasty soapstone carving depicts a serene seated luohan or arhat, holding a book. Carved from prized Shoushan stone—a yet durable soapstone sourced from Fujian province—the figure stands just 7 1/16 inches tall, the medium's ideal qualities for intricate sculpting. Its smooth, waxy surface and subtle color variations lend a lifelike warmth to the monk's contemplative pose, robes flowing naturally, and the open book symbolizing wisdom and enlightenment. Luohans hold profound significance in Chine...