Polychrome Statue Of A Chinese Dignitary (18th-19th Century)

This unique stoneware figurine of a mandarin scholar is a typical example of Chinoiserie, a European interpretation of Far Eastern art. This figurine was entirely hand-carved and is one of a kind. Judging by the less refined finish on the back, it is likely a caryatid that was part of a larger piece. Think, for example, of an incense burner used as a centerpiece. This object probably dates to the fourth quarter of the 18th century. In Europe, the fashion for chinoiserie was started by King Louis XIV, who amassed a fine collection of Chinese porcelain. However, the penchant for the exotic and the allure of the Far East made original Chinese pieces unaffordable, even for the wealthy elite. Therefore, European manufacturers produced pieces that drew inspiration from Oriental examples while still exhibiting distinctive European characteristics. This figurine is a good example. Based on the choice of striking colors, we could place this object in England, although this cannot be said with certainty. The official is in fact wearing a Chuijiao Putou, a typical headgear very popular during the Tang Dynasty (7th-10th centuries), consisting of a headdress with two wide ribbons. The figure's dress, richly decorated with a lotus flower in its center, reveals that the author of this statue was very familiar with Chinese dress codes.