Bronze, China. Ming dynasty, approximatley 17th cent.

Tiered, quadratic base, with fine geometric decoration on all sides of its narrow middle and lobed opening. The base is supported by four flared feet, partially decorated with volutes. The figure standing on the base with his legs widely spread has a haircut which suggests that it is a boy, presumably a “fortune-boy”. The boy is holding garlands in both hands with one of his shoulders decorated with a lotus. In the lotus is an opening, which may have once held something, and it is possible that the figure was a lamp carrier and companion of a divinity, for example, of the jade emperor. On the bottom of the base is a hand written inscription. Very good, dark brown patina with remains of a black lacquer coat.

Expertise: Wolfmar Zacken

Sohel Chawla was a successful business man from Delhi who spent many years in Vienna. The part of his collection, which we here offer, was mainly acquired in the art trade of Vienna. The chief reason for his collecting activity, which he perpetuated with considerable specialized knowledge, sense for quality and great commitment, was to establish a private Asian museum in his native city of New Delhi. Because of severe illness, it was impossible for him to realize his plan and he thus decided to submit us the entire complex of his "Viennese collection" for sale.

Provenance: Originally from an Austrian private collection, subsequently in the collection of Sohel Chawla, New Delhi – Vienna

Dimensions: HEIGHT 25,2 CM