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Massive Pair of Chinese Cloisonne Enamel Figures of Attendants, Qing Dynasty

Offered by: Solomon Treasure

Description
A rare and massive pair of Chinese cloisonne enamel figures of attendants, Qing Dynasty.

Each standing figure similarly depicted with hands raised overhead supporting a large circular tray, all raised on a tall octagonal waisted stand inserted with twelve evenly spaced stanchions connected by loose-ring chains, the figures with gilt faces, necks and chests, each attired in loose garments with foliate roundels against a white or yellow ground and turquoise borders, the tray interiors with central medallions of confronting phoenix and striding dragons on the sides, the exterior with stylized lotus, repeated on the stands with large central polychrome classic lotus on a white ground.

Cloisonné figures of this size are unusual and most likely intended for a room of grand and large dimension.

The form and large size of the present pair is consistent with the grand taste of the Empress Dowager Cixi. She ordered the partial reconstruction and restoration and new buildings for the summer palace in 1860 and it was known to be her favorite residence. Several photos of the Empress Dowager show her flanked by large pyramids of towering fruit atop circular trays and it is possible that this pair were used for a similar purpose. Examples of some of these photos are in the Freer and Sackler archives in Washington, DC which hold forty-four photo-negative portraits of Cixi.

48.5" high x 21" wide x 21" deep

PROVENANCE: Sotheby's, New York, Fine Chinese Ceramics & Works of Art, September 16, 2014, lot 602
Private collection, Austin, Texas.
Collection of C.T. Howell.

Condition: Some repairs to enamel, scattered losses to enamel in some areas, and rubbing to gilt in each figure.

More Information

Origin:	China
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	Enamel
Condition:	Fair. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor fading.
Creation Date:	1860
Styles / Movements:	Asian, Traditional
Incollect Reference #:	502563