This skillfully rendered standing figure is carved from bone, presenting a material with a warm, creamy-yellow patina that speaks to its considerable age. The figure depicts a male subject of dignified and pensive character, likely a scholar, minister, or esteemed ancestor, consistent with traditional Chinese iconography.

The subject’s face is masterfully articulated, with high cheekbones, a prominent aquiline nose, and slender, downcast eyes set beneath delicately arched, incised brows. The focal point of the visage is a long, flowing beard that descends from the upper lip and chin, carved with deep, parallel grooves to simulate individual strands of hair, lending the piece significant texture and gravitas.

He wears a tall, cylindrical hat, known as a guan, which sits squarely upon his head. The surface of the hat is smooth, showing natural graining and darker areas of patination, particularly around the lower rim where it meets the forehead. The figure is clad in a long-sleeved jacket or robe. A notable feature of the construction is the separately carved shoulder pieces or epaulets, which are pegged or fitted onto the main torso. These epaulets, along with the front of the robe, are adorned with incised concentric circles, possibly representing buttons, rank insignia, or simple decorative motifs. The dark residue within these circles suggests they may have once been filled with ink or a lacquer pigment to provide contrast. The figure’s left arm is slightly bent, and though the details of the hand are partially obscured, it appears poised in a gentle gesture.