Artwork preview

Statuette

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Statuette by Unkei depicts a skeletal figure carved from dark-colored material, possibly wood or stone. The figure has a large head with a prominent jaw and nose, and its body is emaciated, with visible ribs and a sunken chest. The figure wears a robe that drapes over its left shoulder and around its waist. Its right arm is raised above its head, while its left hand grasps its stomach. The figure's right leg is bent behind it, with the foot flexed upward. The statuette stands on a rectangular base adorned with carved designs, featuring a small animal or creature at the front. The background of the image is a plain gray color.

Artwork Details

Date
late 18th century
Medium
Ivory, wood
Culture
China
Dimensions
259 × 623 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette