When you enter the esotericstuff.com hall of a Buddhist temple in China, you will see two rows of figures . . . one row on the east side and one row on the west side. Usually, the figures are labelled and numbered, and as a group are known as the Eighteen Lohan (Luohan) and disciples of Gautama Buddha.
Back in the fourth century, there were only 10 disciples. Later the number increased to 16 and included patriarchs and other spiritual experts. Late in the Tang Dynasty, two additional Lohans were added. Then there were 18!
The artisan who carved this set included characteristics of each Lohan into each of his carving . . although a few have me puzzled as to which Lohan is represented. Regardless, the artisan’s representation is what makes this set so very unique.
Hand carved and polished. All are in excellent condition.
These figures were carved a number of years ago in an artisan village near the Arts & Crafts Sculpture Institute in Fujian China.
I would be happy to provide reference information on each of the Lohans.
For the Serious Collector of one-of-a-kind art. Display stands not included.