Delicate Chinese Ivory Figure of the God Zhongli Quan. Circa 1920's

This lovely ivory figure, made in China around 1920, is a representative item of Chinese carving works that were made in the early 20th century. The figure stands on a beautiful base made of dark wood, finely carved with lattice and four small legs. The figure represents a god called Zhongli Quan, a Taoist divinity very popular in Chinese mythology. Zhongli Quan was one of the eight immortals, the oldest of all and leader of the group after Li Tieguai. As the god was born in times of Han Dinasty (206 a. C), he is also known as Zongli of Han. The figure shows the god with his classical attributes: a fat and happy ancient man who holds a palm-shaped fan (symbolizing delicacy and with the power to bring back the dead) and a peach (sign of longevity). Sometimes he also holds a sword, a symbol of his pupil Lü Dongbin. The sculpture work is delicate and precise, especially in the creases of the clothes. The ancient mans face is expressive and happy, and the hair and beard have been painted with slim black lines. The eyes and the border of the clothes are outlined in black, too. Overall, this figure shows all the delicacy and accuracy of the ancient art of Chinese sculpture, being also a beautiful image of Oriental mythology. Figure measurements: 205 mm height x 100 mm width. Without base: 180 mm height.