Antique Shiwan Ware Monk Figurine: Hand-Sculpted Chinese Pottery, Jun Glaze
£375.00
Skip to product information
This finely crafted antique Shiwan ware monk figurine is a rare example of hand-sculpted Chinese folk pottery. Made between 1880 and 1940, the piece features a contemplative monk enjoying a cup of tea, sculpted with exceptional detail. The expressive face captures a meditative calm, and the variegated brown robe is finished in a beautifully textured ‘Jun' glaze, reflecting the high artistry of traditional Shiwan ceramics.
The figure's shaved head references Qing dynasty customs, where it symbolised cultural dominance, virility, and social standing. This subtle detail enhances the cultural significance of the piece.
Historical Background
Shiwan ware originates from Foshan City in Guangdong province and is celebrated for its folk art expression, richly coloured glazes, and naturalistic figures. Each piece was hand-formed by artisans using coarse regional clay, and larger figures over 20 cm—like this one—are especially valuable. Unlike mudmen figurines that were mass-produced for export, genuine Shiwan ware was sculpted by hand, often unsigned, and intended for domestic appreciation.
A similar monk figure is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum, London.
Measurements
Height: 21.5 cm / 8.46″
Depth: 7.8 cm / 3.07″
Width: 6 cm / 2.36″
Weight: 638 g / 1.41 lb
Condition
Excellent antique condition. No chips, losses, or repairs. The glaze is beautifully preserved with rich colour depth and surface detail.
Shipping & Packaging
- Fully tracked and insured worldwide shipping
- Shipping cost includes professional packaging, handling, and postage
Please review all photos carefully before purchasing and feel free to message with any questions.
Antique Shiwan Ware Monk Figurine: Hand-Sculpted Chinese Pottery, Jun Glaze
£375.00
The figure's shaved head references Qing dynasty customs, where it symbolised cultural dominance, virility, and social standing. This subtle detail enhances the cultural significance of the piece.
Historical Background
Shiwan ware originates from Foshan City in Guangdong province and is celebrated for its folk art expression, richly coloured glazes, and naturalistic figures. Each piece was hand-formed by artisans using coarse regional clay, and larger figures over 20 cm—like this one—are especially valuable. Unlike mudmen figurines that were mass-produced for export, genuine Shiwan ware was sculpted by hand, often unsigned, and intended for domestic appreciation.
A similar monk figure is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum, London.
Measurements
Height: 21.5 cm / 8.46″
Depth: 7.8 cm / 3.07″
Width: 6 cm / 2.36″
Weight: 638 g / 1.41 lb
Condition
Excellent antique condition. No chips, losses, or repairs. The glaze is beautifully preserved with rich colour depth and surface detail.
Shipping & Packaging
- Fully tracked and insured worldwide shipping
- Shipping cost includes professional packaging, handling, and postage
Please review all photos carefully before purchasing and feel free to message with any questions.