The Smiling Elder on the Cloud Seat

Viewing notes

A viewer's written impression — not a buyer review or first-hand record

This standing figure is an elderly monk. His head is shaven, his earlobes long; the wrinkles on his forehead and the laugh lines at his eyes are carved true to life, and the corners of his mouth lift slightly as his hands clasp together at his chest. He leans a little forward on bare feet upon a lotus disc, approachable as an old man about to speak. The figure is a soft pale gold throughout, its lustre warm rather than dazzling. The round pedestal below is a matte sandy tone, carved all over in relief with rolling clouds and rising waves, cloud-heads densely layered — the 'cloud seat' of the title. Against the young monk of the same set, this one carries the ease and kindness that only years can wear into a face. He belongs paired with his companion at the two sides of a shrine, or alone in a study or tea room — a silent elder whose company sets the heart down.