Chinese Immortal or Ancestor Figure - 19thC Coffee Tables this attractive antique paandan makes

this attractive antique paandan makes a distinctive jewellery box

ringed collar and elongated body reflect traditional South Indian carving styles

traditional hand-lathed construction

This style of work is characteristic of the Bastar region

They were traditionally made in Kerala from bronze

Chinese Immortal or Ancestor Figure - 19thC Coffee Tables this attractive antique paandan makesAncestor worship was an integral part of Chinese culture for many centuries. It played an important part in each family's clan life. Ancestor figures were cherished and honoured daily with an offering of incense. This was believed to protect the home and family members. Chinese "kin", lineage, is also known as a "clan". These are families of direct male descendants sharing the same surname. Clans are still most active in the southern and eastern