Chinese Lacquered Gilt Wood Pair
Taoist Attendents
Bestowing Wealth
Qing Dynasty, Circa: 19th Century
H 7.5" (19cm.), W 3.75" (9.5cm.), D 3" (7.5cm.)
Condition: good, minor gilt loss

Taoist shrines in China typically displayed statues of courtly attendants making offerings to the local deities to ensure stability and abundance. This pair is well appointed and supplied with rich offerings, the one holding a huge coin, the other in the act of opening a gift box to present its contents. Both figures are well carved with benevolent expressions; covered with red and black lacquer, over which the heavy gilding was applied. Expert lacquering has preserved the opulent gilding, which glows with deep golden tones.

Private Collection