- 454
A Pair of Chinese Export Nodding Head, painted plaster figures Probably Canton, mid 18th century
Estimate
25,000 - 30,000 GBP
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Description
- painted plaster
- 35.5cm. high; 1ft. 2in.
each in exotic robes and holding a gilt-metal vase
Exhibited
Exhibited at `A Tale of Three Cities, Canton, Shanghai & Hong Kong', Sotheby`s, 1997
Literature
Illustrated in the Exhibition catalogue, ` A Tale of Three Cities, Canton, Shanghai & Hong Kong, ' Sotheby`s 1997, p.146, fig. 18.
Condition
Generally good condition. Some old breaks to both necks of each figure which could easily be restored. Some age cracks around all hands with some losses to fingers on green painted figure. Some minor chips to edges of both robes and around feet which could easily be restored according to taste. Some wear to painted decoration, consistent with age. One head lacking an ear-ring.
"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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
A group of related painted clay figures in the collection of the Peabody Museum, Salem, Massachusetts, is illustrated in Carl Crossman, Decorative Arts of the China Trade, 1998, p.317, pl. 112.
The largest collection known of figures of this type is in Sweden at the Drottningholm Palace and in 1777 over a hundred were recorded there called `China dolls' and were collected to provide an authentic view of Chinese life, with many representing artisans in various occupations.
A number of similar but larger figures which were bought by the Prince Regent for the Brighton Pavilion are recorded in early engraved views of its interiors (see Crossman op. cit., p.318).