HERDSMAN RIDING AN OX
Chinese, 17th Century
Burl root, 7 3/8 x 6 7/8 inches

LLUSTRATING a step on the path to Enlightenment, this burl root evocation of a herdsman riding an ox derives its subject from the Ch'an Buddhist parables known as the Ten Oxherding Songs which originated in the 9th Century. A herdsman searches diligently for an ox, paradoxically unaware that he is riding on what he seeks. Root images such as this along with Scholars' Stones are naturally occurring forms whose intrinsic shapes suggest recognizable subjects or themes. These objects, often subtly enhanced by craftsmen, are among the most highly prized of Chinese art objects.

$4500

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