The well defined features display a life-like idealized realism, with a domed, bald (or shaved) head, prominent forehead with furrowed brow, heavily lidded eyes, high cheekbones, full pursed lips and strong a jawline. The deeply inset full glass bead eyes, various wrinkles and facial creases, and the flesh-toned pigment, all add to the sense of realism. The elongated earlobes are the only deviation from the naturalistic features. Small spots on the upper lip indicate this figure would originally have had an applied mustache of real hair.

Luohan, also known as arhats, were the first disciples of the Buddha. They are considered holy men, and are revered throughout the Buddhist world. The number of luohan ranges by tradition, and can be as few as eight, and as many as one hundred and eight. The generally agreed upon number is eighteen. Each luohan has a specific attribute, and is usually described as having a particular supernatural ability.