Name/Title
Chinese Budda Pearl Oyster ShellEntry/Object ID
PS0102Description
Initial analysis appears to describe this piece as an organic specimen from a large freshwater mussel or marine pearl oyster, as opposed to a picture stone. The front of the object displays an iridescent, rainbow-hued mother-of-pearl surface. The dark outline forms a distinctive seated Buddha figure. The bottom and back views show the thick, outer natural layers of the mollusk shell wrapped around a chunky matrix base. The inlay was created by placing small pre-molded figures between the mantle tissue and the interior shell of a live mollusk, which was then returned to the water, where it became permanently fused as a raised "blister pearl" to the inner lining. Revered as good luck amulets, talismans, or religious curiosity art pieces.Artwork Details
Medium
Oyster ShellSubject
Sitting BuddahDimensions
Height
4-1/4 inWidth
3-3/4 inDepth
1-3/4 inWeight
985 gAcquisition
Acquisition Method
Purchase
