Enamelled ceramic sculpture ‘Heavenly King Protector with pipe’, Ming style

An imposing figure of one of the Four Heavenly Kings, modelled in ceramic and enamelled in the Sancai technique, predominantly in shades of green, cream and light brown. The figure is identified with Chiguo Tianwang, protector of the East, known for carrying a stringed musical instrument. The figure is presented standing on a lotus flower base, surrounded by floral motifs and clouds that enhance his celestial character. The costume is richly detailed, notably the fish-scale armour, intricately pleated skirt and ornamented shoulder-straps. The crown is embossed with vegetal motifs and jewels, while long ribbons emanate from the body and float around it. The face has an energetic expression, with wide-open eyes and a pronounced moustache. The polychromy is worn and there are some visible cracks on the base, compatible with its age.

Size: 65 x 26.5 x 19.5 cm