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Chinese Citrus Fingers Hinged Box
Chinese Citrus Fingers Hinged Box

Chinese Citrus Fingers Hinged Box

Owner (Aberdeen, Scotland, 1862 - 1940)
DateQing Dynasty, 18th century
Object NameBox
MediumCitrus medica var. sarcodactylus wood
ClassificationsApplied Art
DimensionsOverall (Height x Width x Depth): 75 × 90 × 170mm
AcquisitionJames Cromar Watt Bequest, 1941.
CopyrightOut of copyright - CC0
LocationOn Display - Gallery 01
Object numberABDMS024876
About MeIntricately carved from a single piece of wood, this hinged box represents a sacred fruit, which has been important in both Chinese and Japanese culture for many centuries. The 'Hand of Buddha' is a religiously significant mutation of the citrus plant, which produces fruits resembling large rough lemons with squid like tentacles rather like gnarled fingers. They are often brought into the home at New Year as they are thought to bring good fortune. Buddha's hand fruit is very fragrant and is used for perfuming rooms and personal items such as clothing.
The fruit may be given as a religious offering in Buddhist temples. According to tradition, Buddha prefers the "fingers" of the fruit to be in a position where they resemble a closed rather than open hand, as closed hands symbolize to Buddha the act of prayer.



More About Me
The hand of Buddha is a mutation of the citrus plant that produces squid-like tentacles rather like fingers. They are brought into the home at New Year to bring good luck.
Exhibitions

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