A 'DEHUA' 'EUROPEAN SUBJECT' FIGURAL GROUP QING DYNASTY, KANGXI PERIOD

a grimacing lion standing foursquare, supporting two European figures and a pup perched on the back braced by the raised tail, the rectangular rockwork base with two further pups clambering beside a European man presenting a large coin

Christie's London, 26th July 1976, lot 187.

Blanc de Chine: Divine Images in Porcelain, China Institute Gallery, New York, 2002, cat. no. 60.

There is restoration to two figures' hat, neck of the top figure and tail of the lion. The top figure has lost his left foot and right thumb. A few chips to the base. Minor firing imperfections.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

For a similar example see P.J. Donnelly, Blanc de Chine, London, 1969, pl. 119A, which Donnelly presents as an example similar to a pair in the Van Cortlandt family collection of New York, inventoried in 1774, and possibly brought to the United States in 1638, ibid. p. 193.