Large Shiwan Pottery Figure Of A Court Official With Ruyi And Lingzhi, Oxblood Glaze, C. 1950s

Large Shiwan pottery figure of a Chinese court official holding a ruyi sceptre and lingzhi mushroom, marked, c. 1950s

This large mid-20th century Shiwan glazed stoneware figure represents a Chinese court official dressed in formal robes, holding a ruyi sceptre in his right hand and a lingzhi mushroom in his left. Both objects are traditional Chinese symbols: the ruyi (‘as you wish’) sceptre symbolises authority, prosperity, and power, while the lingzhi fungus is associated with longevity and immortality. Together, they identify the subject as a figure of high rank and auspicious virtue.

The figure is finished in a deep oxblood glaze, with yellow and green oxide accents highlighting the robe’s folds, trim, and ornamental studs. The ceramic surface has a thick, glossy texture typical of Shiwan kilns during the post-1949 collective era. The facial features, beard, and official’s cap are sharply defined, reflecting the strong moulding and hand-finishing techniques used in Shiwan’s state-run workshops.

The base is impressed with the standard three-part hallmark of the Shiwan Pottery Factory (石湾制陶厂), including:

• Model number 47
• A temple lion emblem
• A square seal with Chinese characters reading 石湾制陶厂 (Shiwan Pottery Factory)

This identifies the piece as a product of the 1950s–1970s collective production period, likely based on models by influential Shiwan sculptors such as Pan Yushu or Liu Zeiman. Larger works like this were technically challenging to fire without flaws due to their hollow construction and thick glazing. Surviving examples of this scale are increasingly desirable among collectors of vintage Chinese ceramics.

Historical Background

The Shiwan kilns in Foshan, Guangdong, have been active for over a thousand years, developing a strong tradition of ceramic figure modelling by the late Qing dynasty. After 1949, these workshops were reorganised into state-run collectives, most notably the Shiwan Pottery Factory. Artisans continued to model figures by hand using moulds derived from master sculptors, producing a wide range of scholar, official, and folkloric subjects. These works are known for their expressive forms, distinctive glazes, and technical quality.

Measurements

• Height: 32 cm / 12.60″
• Width: 15 cm / 5.91″
• Depth: 16 cm / 6.30″
• Weight: 2076 g / 4.58 lbs

Condition

Very good condition for its age and size. A small loss is visible at the tip of the left thumb. The glaze is glossy and well preserved, with excellent colour retention throughout. No structural cracks or repairs. Presents beautifully and remains a strong, display-ready example of mid-century Shiwan craftsmanship.

Shipping & Packaging

• Fully tracked and insured delivery
• Shipping cost includes professional packaging, careful handling, and secure postage
• Carefully packed using recycled materials where possible
• Customs paperwork provided where necessary for smooth international delivery

Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description, and feel free to ask any questions.