18th-Century Chinese Export Porcelain Figures of Two Immortals

Details

Description

Daoist Splendor: Pair of Chinese Famille Rose Porcelain Figures of Immortals,
He Xiangu and Han Xiangz,
Circa 1765-75

A striking … Read more Daoist Splendor: Pair of Chinese Famille Rose Porcelain Figures of Immortals,
He Xiangu and Han Xiangz,
Circa 1765-75

A striking and elaborately modeled pair of Chinese Export porcelain standing figures, dating to the 18th Century (Qianlong Period).

These vibrant figures represent Daoist Immortals or auspicious deities, richly enameled in the famille rose palette. They are depicted in elaborate, flowing robes and distinctive hairstyles, standing upon stylized wave-form bases.

The Lady Figure

She features an elaborate, high-piled hairstyle adorned with a prominent hairpin and is dressed in a yellow robe with swirling patterns over a pink skirt.

Attribute: In her left hand, she holds a bright pink Peach of Immortality.

This is He Xiangu, the only female member of the legendary Eight Immortals. According to mythology, she transformed into an immortal fairy after eating a supernatural peach. While her primary identifying emblem is usually a lotus flower, she is frequently depicted holding a peach as a symbol of her longevity.

The Male Figure:
He has a youthful face and his hair is styled in double buns, a traditional Chinese marker of youth. He wears a striking pink robe richly decorated with colorful butterflies.

Attribute: He is holding a yellow flute upright in his right hand.

Identity: This figure represents Han Xiangzi, the youthful and musically gifted member of the Eight Immortals. His definitive emblem is the flute, and he is revered as the patron saint of musicians. Legend has it that he wandered the countryside charming birds and beasts with his music, and he is also credited with the magical power to make flowers grow and blossom instantaneously.
Measurements

Lady Figure
Height: 10 1/2 inches [26.67 cm]
Width: 4 inches [10.16 cm]
Depth: 2 3/4 inches [6.99 cm]

Male Figure
Height: 9 3/4 inches [24.77 cm]
Width: 4 inches [10.16 cm]
Depth: 2 3/4 inches [6.99 cm]

Provenance:
Property of an East Coast Collector.
Acquired from The Oriental Art Gallery Limited, London, in September 1994.

Condition: Good antique condition each with a small hole in the underside, now invisibly repaired.

Historical Context:

The Eight Immortals: Figures such as these were central to Chinese folklore and Daoism, representing the ability to transcend the human condition. They were extremely popular in the Export market, where they were admired for their exotic costumes and benevolent symbolism.

(Ref: NY11042-nppk) See less