A RARE AND LARGE GILT-BRONZE FIGURE GROUP OF SHANCAI TONGZI ...

Hammer

£800

A RARE AND LARGE GILT-BRONZE FIGURE GROUP OF SHANCAI TONGZI (SUDHANA)
MING DYNASTY (1368-1644)
铜鎏金善财童子像 明 1368-1644
modelled standing atop of rockwork and holding a vase with a crane by his side
35.5cm high

NOTE Cast in the form of Prince Suddana standing atop a rocky outcrop, this exceptional and rare gilt-bronze incense burner presents an unusual iconographic composition. To his right, a crane is elegantly poised on a protruding rock, symbolizing longevity and wisdom. Most notably, the prince holds a vase, an extremely rare feature that distinguishes this piece from other known examples.

The figure is finely cast with flowing robes and a serene expression, embodying the spiritual depth associated with Buddhist imagery of the period. The naturalistic rendering of the rocky base and the poised crane suggests influences from both religious and scholarly traditions. The surface bears a blackened patina, the result of accumulated incense residue, indicative of prolonged ritual use.