YONGZHENG PERIOD (1723-1735)

Details

A LARGE BRONZE 'LIUHAI AND TOAD' FIGURE
YONGZHENG PERIOD (1723-1735)
The immortal is vividly cast smiling with a double-gourd slung over his shoulder and one hand raised holding a pierced coin. He is standing upon a rocky base with his three-legged toad in a pond below amongst fish, crab, and a lotus leaf.
29 in. (74 cm.) high

Provenance

A private European collection

If you wish to view the condition report of this lot, please sign in to your account.

View condition report

Lot Essay

A closely related example in subject, size and stance can be found in the British Museum, dated 1723, no. 1992,0612.1.

Liu Hai and his three-legged toad are considered to be the most auspicious symbol signifying prosperity and wealth. It is said that the toad once lived in a deep pool and harmed people by exuding a poisonous vapour. Liu Hai hooked the toad by using the chain of cash as bait.

It is also popular belief that the toad could ferry Liu Hai anywhere he wished, and if the toad were to hide in a well, he would tempt it back with gold coins.

More from Important Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art

View All