Expert: Sir William - 10/3/2011

Question
QUESTION: I found this neat statue of a toaist immortal.(Iron crutch Li)  Looks pretty detailed dont know much about it.  Would like to know more.  Do you know where I would even start?  Thanks

ANSWER: Hello, Tom,

"Iron-Crutch Li (traditional Chinese: 李鐵拐; simplified Chinese: 李铁拐; pinyin: ''Lǐ Tiěguǎi''; Wade-Giles: ''Li T'ieh-kuai''; Japanese: Tekkai:) is sometimes said to be the most ancient and popular of the Eight Immortals of the Taoist pantheon. He is sometimes described as irascible and ill-tempered, but also benevolent to the poor, sick and the needy, whose suffering he alleviates with special medicine from his gourd. He is often portrayed as an ugly old man with dirty face, scraggy beard, and messy hair held by a golden band. He walks with the aid of an iron crutch (t'ieh kuai) and often has a gourd slung over his shoulder or held in his hand.[1] He often is depicted as a clown figure who descends to earth in the form of a beggar who uses his power to fight for the oppressed and needy."

There's more about this legend at:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iron-Crutch_Li

Please let me know if I can be of further assistance. Thank you for your question.

Sir William




---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Is there anyway to tell its age?  No marks on bottom can see what appears to be small flecks of metal.  looks like pottery or clay maybe?  Do you know who I could take it to for more info?

Answer
Hello, Tom,

Thank you for your follow-up question.

My wild guess would be that the figurine was made during the 1950~1960s.  

You might like to contact the Asian Antiques & Art in Montrose, CO. for an assessment.

http://asianantiques-art.com/home/contact/

Good luck!

Sir William