LATE MING DYNASTY, 16TH-17TH CENTURY

Details

**AN IVORY FIGURE OF AN IMMORTAL
LATE MING DYNASTY, 16TH-17TH CENTURY
Most likely representing Shoulao, the figure well carved with gentle expression, exaggerated domed head, and long incised beard, holding a gnarled staff in the right hand and a fan in the left, wearing long robes clasped in front and a cloth hair covering with long tabs where the incised hair is drawn back at the nape of the neck
11½ in. (29.2 cm.) high

Special notice

Prospective purchasers are advised that several countries prohibit the importation of property containing materials from endangered species, including but not limited to coral, ivory and tortoiseshell. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should familiarize themselves with relevant customs regulations prior to bidding if they intend to import this lot into another country.

Lot Essay

Compare several similar ivory figures, all dated to the late Ming dynasty included in the O.C.S. exhibition, Chinese Ivories from the Shang to the Qing, British Museum, London, 24 May - 19 August 1984, p. 90, no. 87 and p. 94, nos. 96 and 98. Another was included in the exhibition, Chinese Ivories from the Kwan Collection, Art Gallery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 28 July - 14 October 1990, pp. 150-1, no. 51.

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