Description
Chinese export porcelain ear cleaning figural group, Qianlong ca. last quarter 18th century. Depicting two figures decorated in vibrant famille rose. The smiling man seated on a rock with legs crossed tilting his head to the side while his female companion stands above him inspecting his ear.
Provenance: Sotheby's, London, "Chinese Export Porcelain and Works of Art," 10 May 1994, Lot 211; The Distinguished Collection of Leo & Doris Hodroff.
Reference: Howard, "Choice of the Private Trader," pg. 257, no. 306
This figure belongs to a series of 'erotic' figures which depict men engaged in intimate everyday activities with younger woman, such as ear-cleaning and wine drinking. The implications of what will follow this moment suggested by the man's extended hand and the woman's exposed leg.
Height: 7 1/2 in x width: 4 1/4 in x depth: 2 3/4 in.
Provenance: Sotheby's, London, "Chinese Export Porcelain and Works of Art," 10 May 1994, Lot 211; The Distinguished Collection of Leo & Doris Hodroff.
Reference: Howard, "Choice of the Private Trader," pg. 257, no. 306
This figure belongs to a series of 'erotic' figures which depict men engaged in intimate everyday activities with younger woman, such as ear-cleaning and wine drinking. The implications of what will follow this moment suggested by the man's extended hand and the woman's exposed leg.
Height: 7 1/2 in x width: 4 1/4 in x depth: 2 3/4 in.
Condition
Repairs, visible under UV light, to the following areas: the braid and boots of the seated figure; to the standing figure, the top of the bun and the hairpiece, the left ear, the extended hand (it appears to have been reattached), an area extending downwards from the neck to the chest, and the entirety of the neck (it appears to have been reattached). Light wear to the underside.
Buyer's Premium
30%
Chinese Export Famille Rose Ear-Cleaning Group
Estimate $800-$1,600
Starting Bid
$500
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This auction is curated by:
Sean BlanchetAsian Art Specialist
Robert SnellPaintings and Sculpture Specialist
Leo & Doris Hodroff Chinese Export Collection
Nov 12, 2026, 11:00 AM ESTSt. Paul, MN, United States
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