Beautiful Hand Carved Bamboo Root Piece with the Eight Immortals. Mid 20th Century

This striking bamboo root bears a great artisanal carving work which turns it into a real work of art performed by a woodcarving master. It comes from China and is very old, dating from the mid 20th century. The carving is a deep relief which in some parts even passes through the wood, and which depicts the eight Chinese immortals. The immortals are eight male deities which were first described in the 12th century literature. Each immortal is different from the others in look, clothes and age. They also carry different objects, each one with its own power, intended to perform good acts and fight the evil. The piece combines the delicate carving work with some parts where the wood is in the rough. This contrast provides the article with an interesting attractive. The eight immortals are evolving in the middle of a forest, with beautiful twisting trees full of flowers and leaves. The scene is very appealing because of the good feeling it communicates. The figures are smiling and relaxed, and performing different activities: one is playing flute, another one holds a feather The piece is composed of two parts, the most important being the upper one, a big piece of root with the main carving which is fixed to a smaller one, which acts as a base or pedestal. This piece is made of the same wood and bears a simple carving motive of rocks, flowers and sea waves. The figure is in very good condition, and the beauty of the artisanal work goes together with the lovely reddish color of the wood, as warm and bright as the first day. The carving is complete and has no missing or broken parts. This piece is very big, more than half a meter long. Its spectacular look and great beauty turn it into a first-class antique, which will stand out in the most exclusive showcase or on a shelf designed to exhibit singular works of art. Measurements: 540 mm length x 300 mm height.