Antique Chinese Gilt Wood Tudi Gong Earth God Temple Figure with Ruyi and Gold Ingot, Inscribed SW 1912

A hand-carved and hand-painted Chinese wooden figure depicting a seated dignitary or civil-official deity, richly gilded and finished in polychrome and enamel-like colors. The figure wears a tall official's cap with gilt scrollwork and layered court robes decorated with gilt medallions, dragon and floral motifs, and a deep-blue sash with silvered detailing. One hand holds a carved staff/scepter hung with a silk tassel, which is a traditional emblem of authority and good fortune, while the other cradles a wealth ingot. He is seated on a black-lacquered openwork throne over a red and gilt stepped base decorated with cloud scrolls.

The figure has the attributes of Tudi Gong (Fude Zhengshen), the Earth God and god of wealth: a ruyi scepter and a gold ingot. The back retains its original sealed consecration cavity, the sign of a consecrated temple or altar figure.

The face retains expressive hand-painted features with gilt brows and mustache. A small aperture below the nose was likely intended for an inserted whisker beard, a common feature in temple figures of this type. Inscribed "SW 1912" on the underside.

An attractive devotional / altar figure with genuine age, warm patina, and finely detailed craftsmanship.

Details:

• Material: Hand-carved wood, gesso, gilding, polychrome mineral lacquer, textile/hair fibers, metal rod.

• Base Dimensions: 15 × 12 cm

• Height: 28 cm

• Inscription: "SW 1912" (Western collector/inventory style mark on the underside)

• Period: Late Qing Dynasty (19th Century) or early Republic Period.

Condition:
Age-related wear consistent with age and devotional use. Notable losses to gilding and polychrome lacquer, exposed white gesso/wood in places, minor chips to the tiered base, and authentic surface wear to the throne. Presents beautifully overall; sold as an antique in its original, unrestored condition.