Dignitary In Gilt Bronze. Ming Dynasty. China 17th Century Or Before.

Chinese dignitary in cast bronze hot-gilded with mercury. Ming dynasty, 17th century or before. The hands and face are gilded, the rest of the figure was lacquered in several colors, traces of these pigments remain, notably red. The dress is incised with scrolls. The face expresses several feelings, kindness, compassion and joviality, were these the personal characteristics of the character or those of his function? Over the centuries, a beautiful natural verdigris patina has formed in places, especially on the base and the top of the headdress, which gives a venerable antique appearance to this powerful statuette. In the back are pierced 2 small holes , as well as at the back of the base, was it to receive a glory or any other bronze element? Height approximately 37cm. No restoration, no soldering. Original gilding.