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ANTIQUE #SA1176476

Early Chinese Temple Figure Of A Civil Official, Gilt & Polychrome Wood, South China C.1650 (late Ming / Early Qing)

£4,800    $6,433    €5,623
A powerful and authentic 17th-century Chinese temple sculpture depicting a seated civil official (Wen Caishen or Chenghuang type), retaining its original stepped plinth. Finely carved in the round, with gold leaf over red bole, incised black floral diaper, and characteristic red lacquer drops. The yoke-back throne rests above a cloud-mask apron and paired shishi guardians clutching brocade balls.
 
The stepped base, assembled from joined end-grain billets, represents an early construction method used in southern workshops to stabilise large wood masses. The work’s heavy weight (3.809 kg) and deep patina testify to its period authenticity.
 
Historical Background
 
During the Ming–Qing transition, local shrines across southern China displayed such gilt-polychrome figures as emblems of moral and civil order. Their shimmering red and gold surfaces symbolised prosperity and protection. The floral diaper technique is typical of regional temples in Fujian and Guangdong.
 
Measurements...
Antique ID: SA1176476
Item: Early Chinese Temple Figure Of A Civil Official, Gilt & Polychrome Wood, South China C.1650 (late Ming / Early Qing) - (reference SA1176476)
Buying direct from seller: Gillers Antiques Ltd
£4,800
£150
£4,950



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Antique SA1176476 shown on this page was made in the 17th Century. For historical context, the timeline below highlights the period when it was created:
←C17th
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Hertfordshire
United Kingdom
Tel: 07738 009924
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