"Very Large "blanc De Chine" Buddhist Lion - China 17th Century Circa 1640"
A large porcelain Buddhistic Lion of extremely high quality. It is rare to see such a detailed figure with such a cream glaze. They were commonly seen towards the end of the 17th century, then under Kangxi and throughout the Qing Dynasty. This Fo dog is unusual in that its height of just over 34cm makes it a particularly large example. The elements of its collar are also extremely accomplished. All the elements in relief show the enormous care taken in making this lion.Although this Fo lion was originally an incense-holder, the element allowing an incense stick to be inserted has been broken off.
China 17th century
Late Ming Dynasty, Circa 1640
Height: 34.2cm
For a pair of comparable size, see :
- Blanc de Chine, P.J. Donnelly, 93. Buddhistic Miscellanea, B. (With European decoration)
- Blanc de Chine, Marchant and Sons, 2006, p.88, n.56
- Victoria and Albert Museum, Franks.21 (Kangxi pair)
For a much larger model, but with a comparable level of detail, see :
- Blanc de Chine, Marchant and Sons, 2006, p.90-91, n.58
Provenance :
- UK private collection
The fragility of the relief elements has unfortunately resulted in some missing pieces or small accidents. The end of the left tooth is missing, some elements are missing along the back and the incense-holder is missing.
Further information and photos on request.
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