Li Tieguai, Root Carving—19th-century China—an Immortal From The Taoist Tradition.

This is Li Tieguai, one of the legendary Eight Immortals of the Taoist tradition. Chinese work from the second half of the 19th century. Carved from a tree root.
Li Tieguai is depicted as a beggar in rags, leaning on a crutch or cane. He embodies the idea that true enlightenment transcends physical form and social status. Here, the sculptor has incorporatedthe natural forms of the root (knots, hollows, and curves) into thecomposition of the work. The face is expressive, pained, and yetimbued with wisdom and kindness.  The flowing drapery creates a seamless connection between the figure and the material, resulting in a harmony between the figure and nature.  There are numerous details and interplay of textures; the piece is soft to the touch, much like the carved roots of scholars.
Superb lustrous patina. Visible cracks.