stamped Guanyin & Nezha - With Xuande Reign - Bronze - China - 20th century

Set of 2 Antique Chinese Gilt Bronze Figures: Guanyin & Nezha - With Xuande Reign Marks and Early European Provenance Description A fine and heavy-cast pair (set) of two antique Chinese gilt bronze figures, depicting two iconic deities from Chinese spiritual tradition: Guanyin (the Bodhisattva of Compassion) and Nezha (the Taoist Protection Deity / Third Lotus Prince). Guanyin: Serenely depicted in a seated meditative padmasana pose on a lotus throne, featuring flowing robes and holding a holy water vase (kalasha) in her hand. Nezha: Captured in a dynamic, warrior pose, holding his iconic cosmic ring (Qiankun Quan) and his fiery spear (Huojian Qiang), surrounded by a billowing celestial scarf. Both pieces feature an excellent, aged dark patina under which the warm golden-bronze alloy becomes beautifully visible at minor friction and wear points. The undersides of both bases bear identical characteristics that testify to a rich European collection history (provenance): Chinese Reign Mark: Both bases show a recessed, cast 6-character seal mark of the Xuande period (大明宣德年製 - Da Ming Xuan De Nian Zhi), traditionally applied as a quality homage during the Qing dynasty. Western Import/Customs Stamps: Incised Western initials "S K" with an additional foundry or inspection stamp on the rim of the Guanyin. Owner's Mark: An early, hand-engraved Dutch or Belgian family name ("J. de V...") scratched into the bronze. Inventory Labels: Two matching, old hand-written paper auction or collection labels with lot numbers 424 (valuation 3,800) and A134 (valuation 2,800) respectively. Consecration Holes: Original casting and consecration holes in the bottom plates. Specifications: Material: Gilt bronze (high-quality copper-rich bronze alloy with a golden glow underneath the patina, non-magnetic) Dimensions Guanyin: Height 25 cm, width 14 cm (Weight: 1,717 grams) Dimensions Nezha: Height 27 cm (including scarf bow), width 8 cm (Weight: 1,070 grams) Total weight of the set: 2,787 grams Condition: In great, authentic antique condition with a beautiful aged patina. No restorations. Please refer to the detailed photographs for an accurate impression.

Estimate:£211.54

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