A lovely late 19th century blanc de chine Dehua kiln porcelain figural group of 4 celestial maidens / female immortals riding a tree-form boat. Originating from Fujian, Dehua porcelain was prized throughout history but particularly during the Ming and Qing dynasties, with these intricate pieces used to decorate temples and palaces. This beautiful figural group depicts the Heavenly Empress with three attendants riding a root-form boat upon the waves. Such mythological subjects were popular during the Qing Dynasty. Blanc De Chine was particularly desirable to antique collectors during the Republic period and is enjoying a resurgence in popularity again. Auction estimates for this subject and of this age can range from hundred to thousands of USD, with a smaller example selling at Christie’s in 2013 for $2500 USD excl. premium. We have priced this with condition in mind.
Price marked at $450 AUD. Measurements: 19cm height, 22.5 by 7cm base measurements. Good antique condition overall; loss to one qin (stringed instrument) finial, broken sash to standing figure, firing flaws to the back of one sash and along the neck of one attendant. Minor chips to one branch of boat mast.
