Burl Happy Monk of Tranquil Blessings

This exquisite Happy Monk sculpture is meticulously crafted from free-form burl wood, with features elegantly accented in sterling silver and decorated with 24K gold leaf. Jade studs and a sterling silver prayer bead necklace embellished with gold leaf adorn the monk, symbolising meditation and spiritual practice. In one hand, the monk holds a sterling silver bat, whilst a symbolic gourd accompanies the composition. The sculpture is presented on a sleek black granite base. Within Chinese culture, the bat is regarded as a symbol of happiness and longevity, while the gourd traditionally represents the banishment of troubles and the arrival of blessings, protection, and good health. Together, these symbolic elements contribute to the contemplative and auspicious character of the sculpture. Lotus Arts de Vivre founder Rolf von Bueren, an avid burl wood collector for more than four decades, personally travels to Japan to source rare and exceptional pieces of timber. Some are retained within his private collection, others shared amongst fellow collectors, and select examples incorporated into Lotus Arts de Vivre creations. Burl wood is highly prized for its naturally occurring “wild grain”, which creates uniquely patterned surfaces valued by artists, furniture makers, and sculptors worldwide. The dense structure of burl wood also makes it highly resistant to splitting, contributing to its enduring value for sculptural objects, bowls, and decorative artefacts. Its rarity and organic beauty ensure that each piece remains entirely unique. This sculpture required eight master craftsmen and approximately three months of combined production time to complete. From the initial concept and sculptural design to wood carving and silver craftsmanship, each stage was executed with considerable precision and care. Happy Monk sculpture in burl wood with sterling silver, 24K gold leaf, jade, and black granite, created as a luxury spiritual sculpture and collectible decorative art object. This handcrafted burl wood sculpture belongs within luxury home décor, artisan wood carvings, and statement interior sculptures, combining rare wild-grain burl wood with refined silver craftsmanship and symbolic Buddhist-inspired detailing. Ideal for collectors of spiritual décor, handcrafted wooden sculptures, and bespoke luxury interiors, it offers a one of a kind balance of organic material, cultural symbolism, and sculptural artistry. Size: 49 (W) × 56 (L) × 82 (H) cm Weight: 58 kg