Large Shiwan Pottery Figure Of Shou XIng In Oxblood Glaze, Chinese, C. 1950s

Large mid-20th century Shiwan ceramic figure of Shou Xing – oxblood glaze – Shiwan Pottery Factory (石湾制陶厂)

This finely modelled stoneware figure represents Shou Xing (寿星), the Daoist god of longevity, depicted with his characteristic bald head, flowing white beard, peach of immortality, and knotted staff. Crafted in the Shiwan kilns of Guangdong, China, the figure reflects the robust tradition of ceramic sculpture associated with this region, particularly during the mid-20th century under the collective-era Shiwan Pottery Factory (石湾制陶厂).

The piece is notable for its striking oxblood red glaze, a hallmark of Shiwan production, accented with cream, celadon green, and cobalt blue for added detail and depth. The robes are defined with incised folds and highlighted outlines, giving the figure a lifelike presence. The expressive face and dynamic stance are indicative of studio designs influenced by master sculptors such as Liu Zeiman, though this example bears only the factory mark, suggesting it was created as part of a controlled production line based on master models.

The base is impressed with:

• 石湾制陶厂 (Shiwan Zhi Tao Chang) – Shiwan Pottery Factory
• A stylised temple lion (狮子) emblem, used as a workshop hallmark
• A mould number 44, indicating its production model within the factory catalogue

This example is unusually large for a Shiwan figure, standing at 30 cm tall and weighing over 1.9 kg. Larger Shiwan sculptures are significantly rarer due to the technical challenges of firing larger hollow bodies without warping or cracking. Their increased presence and detail make them particularly desirable among collectors.

Historical Background
The Shiwan kilns, located in Foshan, Guangdong Province, have been active since at least the Song dynasty and are renowned for their expressive ceramic sculpture, often depicting folk deities, scholars, and everyday figures. In the 1950s, following the formation of the People’s Republic of China, many Shiwan workshops were collectivised under state-run factories such as the Shiwan Pottery Factory (石湾制陶厂). These facilities maintained the region’s strong tradition of hand-modelling while streamlining certain elements of production. Iconic sculptors like Liu Zeiman, Pan Yushu, and Huang Bing influenced many of the moulds still reproduced during the 1960s and 1970s. Pieces from this period are highly regarded for their balance of artistic merit and technical refinement.

Measurements

• Height: 30 cm / 11.8″
• Width: 15.5 cm / 6.1″
• Depth: 15.5 cm / 6.1″
• Weight: 1934 g

Condition

Overall excellent presentation with vibrant glaze and finely detailed modelling. The glossy oxblood glaze is rich and even, with no flaking or dulling. The figure displays beautifully with no chips, repairs, or post-firing damage.

Upon close inspection, there are two visible firing cracks on the unglazed interior edge of the base — one longer crack to the left side and a smaller one to the right. These are typical of large hollow stoneware figures from Shiwan and occurred naturally during the kiln firing process; they do not affect stability or structural soundness.

All other areas are in excellent condition, with crisp detailing in the beard, staff, and robes. The base is clean and clearly marked. This is a particularly well-preserved and large example of Shiwan figural work — solid, decorative, and highly displayable.

Shipping & Packaging

• Fully tracked and insured delivery
• Shipping cost includes professional packaging, careful handling, and secure postage
• Carefully packed using recycled materials where possible
• Customs paperwork provided where necessary for smooth international delivery

Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description, and feel free to ask any questions.