Tibetan Temple Boxwood Laozi Statue – Taishang Laojun with Three Open Boxes (4")

This old boxwood statue from a Tibetan temple collection depicts Laozi (Taishang Laojun), the revered Daoist sage and author of the Daodejing. Seated with calm authority, he is accompanied by three open boxes at his feet or side—evoking hidden teachings, treasures of wisdom, or the “three treasures” of Daoist practice.

Carved from warm, fine-grained boxwood, the figure’s robes, beard, and facial expression are rendered with quiet precision. Time has softened the edges and deepened the color, giving the statue the feel of a long-kept altar piece rather than a new ornament.

In an office or study, Laozi serves as a reminder of simplicity, non-forcing, and clear seeing; in a worship hall or home shrine, he is honored as Taishang Laojun, high lord of the Daoist pantheon. Place him on a desk, bookshelf, or low altar table, perhaps with a candle and a small bowl, to create a modest but potent Daoist corner.

Details

• Collection: Tibetan Temple Collection
• Subject: Laozi / Taishang Laojun with three open boxes
• Material: Old boxwood with aged patina
• Symbolism: Daoist wisdom, hidden treasures of teaching, and calm authority
• Placement: Office desks, studies, altar tables, and Temple & Ritual shelves