Lot Essay
Zhenwu, the Perfected Warrior began as an entwined tortoise and snake assuming human form from the 11th century onwards and became an important Daoist and Buddhist figure during the Ming dynasty.
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Details
A large lacquered gilt bronze figure of the Daoist Immortal Zhenwu, dated to the 42nd year of the Jiajing emperor
cast seated on a raised throne, with hands resting on his knees, one finger pointing downwards towards the turtle and snake at his feet, the figure with solemn expression and long hair swept back over his shoulders, wearing a breast plate cast in relief with a large scrolling flowerhead beneath long robes incised with floral and cloud borders, the reverse of throne inscribed with a dedicatory inscription dating the figure to the 42nd year of the Jiajing reign -- 19in. (48.3cm.) high.
cast seated on a raised throne, with hands resting on his knees, one finger pointing downwards towards the turtle and snake at his feet, the figure with solemn expression and long hair swept back over his shoulders, wearing a breast plate cast in relief with a large scrolling flowerhead beneath long robes incised with floral and cloud borders, the reverse of throne inscribed with a dedicatory inscription dating the figure to the 42nd year of the Jiajing reign -- 19in. (48.3cm.) high.
Provenance
Ex: Carlo Puini collection: an Italian private collector (Florence) in the 1920's/1930's and by descent to the current owner.
Special notice
No VAT will be charged on the hammer price, but VAT at 17.5% will be added to the buyer's premium, which is invoiced on a VAT inclusive basis.