"Taoist Monk Statuette, China XIXth"
Statuette full of charm and poetry. It depicts a Taoist monk riding the vermilion bird, Suzaku, guardian phoenix of the South. It is presented on a rectangular stuccoed wood pedestal base with remnants of blue chrome and gilding. Marks of time, minor surface wear 19th century China. Dimensions: 12 x 5 x 3.2 cm "In Chinese Taoism the 4 animals called the 4 powers, are the symbols and guardians of the 4 orients (cardinal points). The azure dragon is associated with the East (wood element) The black turtle associated with the North (water element) The white tiger associated with the West (metal element) The Vermilion bird associated with the South (fire element) * Shipping costs 9.50 for France and 14.90 for Europe, international on estimate