清十九 / 二十世紀 德化白釉和合二仙像

the twins modeled standing atop a lotus flower and leaf base, one standing wearing loose robes open at the chest to show a lotus-form necklace, the hair in two topknots, one hand holding a large plantain leaf that rests on the shoulders; the other twin seated alongside him, wearing loose robes open at the chest uncovering a ruyi-form necklace, opening a basket to reveal a bat

One section of the plantain leaf and the ribbon on the robe of the standing twin has been broken off and restuck. There is also a small chip to the edge of the robe. There are a few scattered iron spots, one more noticeably on the back arm of the standing twin.
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.

According to John Ayers in Blanc-de-Chine: Divine Images in Porcelain, p. 91, the Hehe Erxian were believed to be patron saints of merchants and of potters, and watched over their prosperity. They were originally reputed to have been a pair of Chan Buddhist monks, Hanshan and Shide who lived in the Tang period.

See a very similar Hehe Erxian group sold at Christie's Hong Kong, 31st May 2010, lot 1972, and another two sold 1st June 2011, lots 3724 and 3725.