Vintage Chinese Shiwan Wucai Woman Figure With Apples

Details

Description

A vintage Chinese Shiwan Wucai porcelain and ceramic figurine of a maiden in a blue floral robe carrying a basket … Read more A vintage Chinese Shiwan Wucai porcelain and ceramic figurine of a maiden in a blue floral robe carrying a basket of apples.

The handcrafted ceramic sculpture features hand-painted floral robes with colorful overglaze enamel accents/ She is also carrying a long stick that is attached to the basket with a wire.

The figure has an inscription under the basket that reads,
⦁ “生意興隆” (Shēng Yì Xīng Lóng): This is a very common and auspicious Chinese idiom translating directly to "Business is booming" or "May your business prosper".
⦁ “林偉東” (Lín Wěi Dōng): This confirms the artist/craftsman of the figurine is Lin Weidong, a highly regarded contemporary master of Shiwan artistic pottery. He is widely recognized for his exquisite, expressive figurines of elegant ladies and court maidens from the Qing Dynasty and Republican eras.
⦁ “制衣精品” (Zhì Yī Jīng Pǐn) or “精品”: This notes that it is a "Premium Quality Garment Piece" or "Exquisite Workmanship Product," indicating it belongs to his high-quality boutique lines.

This specific combination of inscriptions indicates that the figurine was produced in late 20th-century Shiwan (Foshan, Guangdong, China) as a boutique or collector's piece. The inclusion of the auspicious business phrase makes it highly popular as a traditional gift for shop openings, businesses, or home display to invite good fortune.

Provenance: This figure was purchased in China in the early 1990s by a US diplomat that lived in China at the time.

MEASUREMENTS
10 ¾ in (27.3 cm) tall. Weighs 1 lb 5.7 oz.

CONDITION
The fingertips on her left hand have broken off and the little ring that secures the metal wire to the basket has been repaired. There are no other damages, and the enamels are very bright and fresh.

With its expressive detail, vibrant enamels, and auspicious inscription wishing prosperity and success, this charming Shiwan figurine makes a distinctive addition to a collection of Chinese ceramics or an elegant decorative accent with a touch of traditional Chinese symbolism. See less