A rare pair of Chinese Templar guardians in lacquered...

Rare pair of oriental / Chinese figures depicting guardians in armor, made of non-ferrous patinated metal, presumably bronze or a copper alloy. The two sculptures represent male figures dressed in ceremonial attire and armor, attributable to the iconography of Templar or devotional guardians in Chinese and East Asian art. The rendering of faces, armors, and posture lends the pair a strong symbolic and protective character. One figure has a more mature, bearded, stern face, with an authoritative and martial expression. Iconographically, it could recall protective figures such as Guandi / Guan Yu, the deified general in Chinese tradition associated with loyalty, justice, and protection. The other figure, younger and more composed, with hands brought to the front, evokes the iconography of youthful Buddhist guardians, such as Weituo / Skanda, traditionally depicted as protectors of the Dharma and guardians of sacred spaces. The attribution is proposed prudently and not certified: the figures are described as Chinese Ming/Qing style Templar or devotional guardians, or at least inspired by that artistic tradition. The material appears to be non-ferrous metal. A magnet test was performed and the magnet does not adhere at any point, a condition compatible with bronze, brass, or other copper alloys. The surface presents a natural dark patina and traces of reddish color, perhaps lacquer residues, pigmentation, or ancient surface finish. Such traces contribute to the charm of the whole and are consistent with the appearance of devotional or decorative ancient objects, often originally lacquered or polychromed. On the back there are several holes. These could be related to a previous fixing, mounting, or application on a wooden support, architectural structure, altar, or decorative element. This interpretation is offered as a hypothesis and not as a certainty. The holes are clearly visible in the photographs and are part of the material history of the objects. Proposed period: China or Chinese cultural area, probably Qing period or later, in the style of Ming/Qing devotional sculptures. Possible earlier attribution, late Ming / early Qing, but not certified. Dating is therefore prudently indicated as circa 17th–19th centuries / Ming-Qing style. Overall condition good, compatible with age and nature of the objects: patina of time, superficial wear, residual color traces, minor marks and irregularities (note the base area in the photos). The objects have not been polished or restored, in order to preserve the patina and historical appearance. Dimensions of each figure: Height: about 26.5 cm Width: about 7 cm Prudential material indication: Non-ferrous metal patinated, presumably bronze / copper alloy. Subject: Chinese/oriental Templar or devotional guardians, perhaps linked to the iconography of Guandi / Guan Yu and Weituo / Skanda. Origin: Private collection. The photographs are an integral part of the description and document in detail the material, patina, conditions, color traces, back and fixing holes. Tracked shipping with careful and professional packaging. The two sculptures will be individually protected with shock-absorbing material and placed in reinforced boxes, with particular attention to their antique and delicate nature.

Estimación:€650

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