Chinese Toggle Depicting Human Figure

Robed figure with one arm thrust upward holding a tall tube like a torch.

This bamboo toggle depicting a human figure is from China, and dates to the 19th century. Human figures are a long-standing subject for Chinese toggles, and a carved person is often shown in a compact, seated or standing pose with a channel for the cord. Seen straight on, a tall, slim figure in a pointed cap and long robe, one arm lifted high and holding a thick cylindrical tube. The lower body is a segmented column with vertical lines. The surface is dark brown with reddish warmth and soft sheen. It is 0.25 inches wide, 1 deep and 3.25 high.

Arm up and tube high, committed to the performance.