Chinese Carved Wooden Punishment Figure, c.1900

A fascinating and finely detailed carved wooden figure dating to around 1900, depicting a man wearing a cangue — the heavy wooden collar traditionally used as a form of public punishment in Imperial China. The figure is skilfully carved with a finely modelled face and the characteristic long queue hairstyle, with the front of the head shaved and a single long braid extending down the back.

This hairstyle, originally imposed by the Manchu rulers of the Qing dynasty, became a complex political symbol in 19th-century China: compliance signified submission to Qing rule, while cutting the queue could be an act of rebellion.

The figure is likely from Shanghai, and retains handwritten Chinese notes on the wooden cangue, adding further historical interest and authenticity.

A rare and evocative piece reflecting both traditional craftsmanship and the social history of punishment and political symbolism in late Imperial China.