Exceptional Qing Dynasty Dehua Blanc-de-chine Hehe Erxian Figure Group

An exceptional and beautifully preserved Qing Dynasty Dehua blanc-de-Chine group depicting Hehe Erxian, the celebrated Twin Immortals of Harmony and Union.

The two smiling figures are modelled with remarkable warmth and animation. The taller immortal carries a broad plantain leaf over his shoulder, wears an elaborate ruyi-form necklace, and affectionately embraces his companion. The smaller figure presents a finely modelled woven box or basket, from which a bat—an ancient Chinese emblem of happiness and good fortune—emerges. They stand upon a broad lotus leaf above a vigorously sculpted base of scrolling waves, lotus buds, and aquatic foliage.

The composition is rich in auspicious wordplay. Lotus, box, harmony, and union are expressed by related Chinese sounds, while the bat represents fu, or good fortune. Consequently, Hehe Erxian became powerful symbols of concord, reconciliation, marital happiness, and enduring companionship.

The quality of the modelling is particularly fine. Note the expressive laughing faces, individually defined fingers, finely combed hair, deep and fluid folds of the robes, delicately pierced areas, and crisply articulated waves. The creamy ivory-white glaze possesses the soft luminosity for which the finest Dehua porcelain is admired, gathering subtly in the recesses and accentuating the sculptural detail.

Two impressed marks appear on the reverse: the double-gourd Dehua mark 德化 and the square He Chaozong yin seal 何朝宗印, meaning “Seal of He Chaozong”. Their use places the group within the distinguished sculptural tradition associated with the celebrated Dehua master. They are presented here as traditional or workshop marks rather than as a claim of personal authorship by the late-Ming artist.

A 23.5 cm example of the same model, bearing the same Dehua and He Chaozong seals and catalogued as Qing Dynasty, was sold by Beijing Johan in 2011 for RMB 40,250. In the same year, a differently modelled and larger signed Dehua group of Hehe Erxian realised £37,250 at Christie’s. Another Dehua Hehe Erxian group sold at Dreweatts for £7,500 against an estimate of £1,000–£1,500.

The enduring cultural importance of this subject is further demonstrated by Dehua groups of Hehe Erxian preserved in major institutional collections, including the British Museum. A closely related signed Dehua group is also recorded in the collection of the Hong Kong Museum of Art.

Qing Dynasty, probably 19th century.

Condition: Absolutely impeccable. Carefully examined throughout under 365 nm ultraviolet light. No chips, cracks, or restoration. All fingers and projecting elements—including the leaf, basket, bat, and details of the base—are intact.

Dimensions: Height 24 cm; Width 14 cm; Depth 11 cm; Weight 1,174 g.

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. Shipping costs include handling, packaging, and postage.