Large Shiwan Pottery Figure Of A Warrior With Sword, Oxblood Glaze, China, C. 1950s

Large Shiwan pottery figure of a warrior with sword, oxblood glaze, Chinese, c. 1950s

This large mid-20th century Shiwan figure depicts a commanding Chinese warrior or folkloric character captured in a forward-leaning pose full of movement and tension. He wears a richly glazed oxblood robe, accented with green oxide highlights and applied ceramic studs that suggest ornamental fastenings. The glaze is thick and lustrous, with tonal variation that enhances the depth and folds of the drapery.

The face is particularly expressive: arched brows, intense eyes, and a furrowed brow convey authority and resolve. His mouth is slightly open, and the modelling of the head is sharply defined, with high cheekbones, a prominent nose, and a finely worked beard and moustache that give the figure both realism and personality.

The right hand is raised in a decisive gesture, while the left is tucked behind.  Around his waist, decorative belt fittings and beads complete the ensemble—though some elements, including part of the sword hilt and belt, show minor losses.

Produced in the renowned Shiwan kilns of Foshan, Guangdong, the sculpture features the characteristic triple impressed mark on the base: a rectangular mould number (48), a stylised temple lion, and the square seal of the Shiwan Pottery Factory (石湾制陶厂). These marks confirm its origin in the collective-era workshops active between the 1950s and 1970s. Although unsigned, the piece likely derives from an original design by prominent sculptors such as Pan Yushu or Liu Zeiman, later produced using moulds and hand-finished by skilled artisans.

Larger Shiwan sculptures like this were particularly challenging to produce due to their scale and firing complexity. As such, they are prized today for their presence, technical difficulty, and sculptural finesse.

Historical Background

The Shiwan kilns have operated since at least the Tang dynasty, achieving particular acclaim for sculptural ceramics during the late Qing period. In the mid-20th century, following the establishment of the People’s Republic of China, traditional Shiwan workshops were restructured into state-supervised collectives such as the Shiwan Pottery Factory. These maintained centuries-old modelling skills within a system of semi-industrial production, resulting in a generation of highly collectible decorative figures known for their vivid glaze work and expressive modelling.

Measurements

• Height: 32 cm / 12.60″
• Width: 18 cm / 7.09″
• Depth: 17 cm / 6.69″
• Weight: 2406 g /5.3 lbs

Condition

Very good overall condition for its age and size. There are a few firing cracks on the unglazed interior edge of the base—typical of large hollow stoneware figures—caused naturally during the kiln firing process. Minor losses are visible to the sword hilt and one of the decorative belt elements at the back. The glaze remains vibrant, with excellent colour retention, a glossy sheen, and strong tonal contrast. Please review all photographs carefully to appreciate the expressive modelling and to note minor imperfections consistent with mid-century Shiwan craftsmanship.

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.