443 - (R) A PORCELAIN STATUE OF A LAUGHING MAN, QIANLONG PERIOD, CHINA, 18TH CENTURY

(R) A PORCELAIN STATUE OF A LAUGHING MAN, QIANLONG PERIOD, CHINA, 18TH CENTURY Dimensions: Height 23,5 cm Wide 7 cm Depth 5 cm Weight: 364 grams A lively Chinese porcelain figure of a standing laughing man, modelled with eyes gently closed and mouth open in an expression of unrestrained amusement. He wears a long robe decorated with a geometric diamond pattern in turquoise, cobalt blue, black and white enamels, gathered at the waist by a pink sash. A small cap, elongated beard and brightly coloured details give the slender figure a strongly individual silhouette above its stepped turquoise base. The neck has been restored, with minor losses, chips and age-related surface wear. Porcelain figures of the high Qing period brought together sculptural modelling and the sophisticated enamel palette of the 18th century. Such figures could embody auspicious character types and expressions associated with happiness, prosperity and good fortune, making them particularly suited to domestic display. The charm of the present figure lies in the contrast between its narrow upright body and animated face. The patterned robe provides a disciplined ornamental framework, while the laughter breaks through that formality and gives the object an immediate human warmth. Provenance recorded in the source: Collection Almas, circa 1975; Collection Lacoda. For lots marked with (R), a 19% VAT is added to the combined hammer price and commission. This VAT is waived for: - Private buyers outside the EU who officially export the items.- Businesses inside the EU holding a valid VAT number, exporting to their home country. Proper export documentation is required to waive the VAT