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Chinese Polychrome Seated Ancestor Figure, C. 1800

About the Item

An integral part of traditional Chinese home life, ancestor worship before a domestic altar often featured painted ancestral portraits or tabletop ancestor figures. This early 19th-century ancestor figure was carefully hand-carved and painted to bear the likeness of one of its original owner's important forebears. The figure depicts a seated male official dressed in flowing robes. The polychromed finish has worn considerably over time for a beautiful, weathered texture. The small compartment in the back was used to hold consecration materials, such as a small paper scroll bearing a hand-written prayer.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 9.75 in (24.77 cm)Width: 4.5 in (11.43 cm)Depth: 2.5 in (6.35 cm)
  • Style:
    Qing (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Wood,Hand-Carved,Polychromed
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1800
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor fading.
  • Seller Location:
    Chicago, IL
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: CMRC0381stDibs: LU820030457212

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