18th Century Ming Dynasty Polychrome Wood Statue of Warrior Guard

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A fantastic Ming dynasty polychrome wood statue of a warrior, standing firm and commanding, with large, alert, bulging eyes, a … Read more A fantastic Ming dynasty polychrome wood statue of a warrior, standing firm and commanding, with large, alert, bulging eyes, a broad nose and mouth—facial features of the northern Chinese tribes. He wears a long, draped hat extending to the shoulders, a style reminiscent of the Yuan dynasty, reflecting Mongol influence on court and military attire. Dressed with a fitted leather waistcoat fastened at the front, paired with tall, full-coverage boots, suggesting readiness for battle. His left hand rests firmly on his hip, the stance exuding vigilance and restrained power. The figure is painted in vivid mineral pigments—emerald green, lapis blue, and cinnabar red—of which remarkable traces still remain. Surviving elements of gilt-on-laid decoration are visible across the bodice, forming coiled patterns symbolic of Longevity.

Sculptures of this scale and quality were highly prestigious commissions, often created to commemorate the military triumphs of an honored general. It was also a status symbol, proclaiming the wealth and influence of its patron and reinforcing the values of martial courage and loyalty celebrated by the imperial court. This all-original example represents a rare and significant survival of Ming dynasty polychrome sculpture, remarkable both for its imposing presence and for the depth of history it embodies. See less