China, late Ming to early Qing dynasty. The finely modeled clay body is of a deep brown tone with shades of caramel brown throughout. Some highlights, such as the many holes in his gown, are neatly picked out in black lacquer.
Condition: Superb condition with some old wear, soiling and minor firing flaws. The figure may once have held a separate stick or pole. The hardwood base is attached to the statue and may only be removed by a professional (we will under no circumstance attempt to remove it, even though a signature or inscription may be situated on the underside). The base shows significant traces of use and its lower section is loose. Provenance: From an Austrian private collection. By repute acquired in the local market before 1980 and thence by descent in the same family.
Weight: 2,258 g including the hardwood base Dimensions: 34.3 cm without the base and 38 cm with the base
The immortal is shown standing with raddled gown and headgear. His face, with contemplative expression, is carved with pronounced eyes and a crisply rendered beard, to which his gnarled hands and feet are in stark contrast.
Carved hardwood base with four feet and finely incised lappet border in slight relief, dating to the later Qing dynasty. (2)
Auction result comparison: Compare with a related Yixing Zisha figure of Shakyamuni from the same period at Christies New York, in Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, on 16 September 2016, lot 1339, sold for a hammer price of USD $40,000.