Exceptional Antiques, Fine Art and Design Auction
Lot 49:
Antique Chinese Polychrome Lacquer Temple Figure of Guan Yu
Description
Chinese polychrome lacquer temple figure of Guan Yu / Guan Gong / Guandi, 19th century or earlier. The armored warrior deity is shown standing on a rectangular plinth, with red-painted face, fierce brows, applied black horsehair beard, and elaborate raised armor decoration picked out in red, green, orange, gilt, and black. Guan Yu, the historical Three Kingdoms general later deified in Chinese folk religion and Daoist worship, is one of the most recognizable Chinese protective deities. His red face and long beard are central identifiers, symbolizing loyalty, martial authority, and righteousness. This example retains strong folk-temple character, with expressive modeling, applied beard, painted armor panels, dragon-form shoulder detail, and traces of original polychrome and gilt decoration. The figure was likely originally displayed as a temple, shrine, altar, or processional figure. The hand position suggests it may once have held an attribute, probably a weapon or staff-form implement associated with martial deity imagery. Strong decorative presence with desirable age, surface wear, and ritual-folk character.
Dimensions: 12 inches H x 6 W.
Condition: Some loss to lacquer in places, please see photos.
Condition report:
This sale is made without warranty whatsoever at the sole risk and peril of the buyer. ALL SALES ARE FINAL. Cette vente se fait sans aucune garantie, aux risques et périls de l\'acheteur. Toute vente est définitive. IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE BUYER TO VERIFY THE CONDITION AND/OR AUTHENTICITY OF THE ITEM, EITHER IN PERSON DURING OUR VIEWING HOURS PRIOR TO AUCTION OR THROUGH REQUESTED CONDITION REPORTS. Although care is taken to photograph and describe the item, absence of a condition report does not imply perfect condition. All bids are final and are subject to our terms and conditions.
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