A RARE DATED GILT-BRONZE FIGURE OF LIU HAI MARK AND PERIOD OF QIANLONG, DATED 1737

finely cast standing on a square low base in the form of a table, holding his three-legged toad in his right hand and a large gold coin to tempt the toad in his left, his face with thoughtful expression, eyes closed and a slight smile, wearing a long robe falling in deep folds down over his bare feet and incised with cloud-scrolls and a lotus band at the edge, inscribed to the back Qianlong san nian ('Third year of the Qianlong period'), the stand inscribed Wu jin zhi zhao ('made from five metals')

Christie's Amsterdam, 20th May 2008, lot 363.

It is in overall very good condition except for some minor dents the figure. There are some loss to the gilding, especially to the head, shoulders and back.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This rare sculpture of Liu Hai is an exquisite and rare example of a Daoist figure made during the Qianlong period, a time when Buddhist figures were created in abundance. The sense of movement captured in the rhythmic folds of the sleeves of his robes and the naturalistic weathered face, coupled with the meticulously detailed robe, are characteristic of bronze sculpture created in the early years at the Zaobanchu (Imperial Palace Workshop) of Qianlong's reign.

Only one closely related figure is known, but lacing the base and inscribed, 'From the Collection of Li Gangjun, made in the first year of the Jingkang period (1126); may my sons and grandsons treasure this forever', sold in our London rooms, 23^rd April 1963, lot 93. For another figure of Liu Hai with his toad and carrying a coin, but of more emaciated form and stylised robes and head, see one sold in our London rooms, 11^th July 1972, lot 18.

Revered as a god of wealth and a suppressor of evil spirits, Liu Hai is a historical figure from the Han dynasty who was once a prime minister. Legend has it that he came upon a Daoist master who asked Liu Hai for ten eggs. The master subsequently stacked the eggs into the shape of a pagoda with coins in between. Through this exchange with the Daoist master Liu Hai became enlightened and was immediately transported into the world of the Immortals. Along with the coin, Liu Hai's pet three-legged toad is also a symbol of wealth. The toad had a love for water and of gold and had to be coaxed out of wells with gold coins by Liu Hai.