Patinated Bronze Buddhistic Luohan Figure

A very handsome patinated bronze Buddhistic figure of a Luohan or Arhat dating to the early to mid 20th century, and probably originating in China or Tibet. The Luohans were the major disciples of Buddha. According to tradition there were 16 Luohans, all with different personalities and attributes, and in depictions they can usually be identified by their postures or by what they are holding. This particular Luohan is Nakula. He is serene and dignified with a calm countenance and, as in this figure he is usually shown meditating.

This figure is made out of hollow patinated and oxidised bronze filled with some kind of weighty resinous material; he is not heavy enough to be solid bronze. He is nicely modelled and has a beautiful serene face. The base is covered with textured paper.