Rare Japanese Kutani Jurojin figure Meiji porcelain God of Longevity c. 1880–1910
£500.00
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A substantial Japanese Kutani porcelain figure of Jurojin, the God of Longevity, dating to the Meiji period, circa 1880-1910. This impressive cabinet-scale figure depicts the aged sage seated with staff in richly ornamented ceremonial robes, combining strong sculptural presence with the symbolic appeal of one of Japan's most recognisable auspicious deities.
Executed in the classic late Kutani export manner, the figure combines dense overglaze enamels, extensive raised moriage enamel and heavy hand-applied gilding. The robe is richly decorated with swirling gilt scrollwork and brocade-like ornament in iron-red, cobalt blue, green and gilt, while the expressive face, white brows and flowing beard provide notable character and visual contrast.
Jurojin, one of the Seven Lucky Gods, derives from the Chinese longevity deity Shouxing and symbolises wisdom, long life and immortality. He is typically shown as an aged sage with a long white beard, carrying a staff and scroll said to record the lifespan or deeds of all living beings. In popular legend, he was also portrayed as a lover of wine and female companionship, adding an earthly dimension to his spiritual symbolism. Such imagery made Jurojin figures powerful symbols of blessing, longevity, wisdom and the pleasures of a long life.
We especially draw attention to the extraordinary face of this figure. This is far more than a merely decorative object; the modeller seems to have infused it with real life, capturing not simply an abstract deity but the deeply human presence of a once-living man, rendered with remarkable individuality, wisdom and character, as if preserving the memory of an actual soul.
A highly decorative and culturally resonant Meiji figure, combining substantial scale, strong visual richness and classic Kutani workmanship.
Dimensions
Height: 21 cm
Width: 16 cm
Depth: 8 cm
Weight: 1126 g
Condition
Losses to gilding consistent with age, otherwise good antique condition.
Please study the accompanying photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance.
Rare Japanese Kutani Jurojin figure Meiji porcelain God of Longevity c. 1880–1910
£500.00
Executed in the classic late Kutani export manner, the figure combines dense overglaze enamels, extensive raised moriage enamel and heavy hand-applied gilding. The robe is richly decorated with swirling gilt scrollwork and brocade-like ornament in iron-red, cobalt blue, green and gilt, while the expressive face, white brows and flowing beard provide notable character and visual contrast.
Jurojin, one of the Seven Lucky Gods, derives from the Chinese longevity deity Shouxing and symbolises wisdom, long life and immortality. He is typically shown as an aged sage with a long white beard, carrying a staff and scroll said to record the lifespan or deeds of all living beings. In popular legend, he was also portrayed as a lover of wine and female companionship, adding an earthly dimension to his spiritual symbolism. Such imagery made Jurojin figures powerful symbols of blessing, longevity, wisdom and the pleasures of a long life.
We especially draw attention to the extraordinary face of this figure. This is far more than a merely decorative object; the modeller seems to have infused it with real life, capturing not simply an abstract deity but the deeply human presence of a once-living man, rendered with remarkable individuality, wisdom and character, as if preserving the memory of an actual soul.
A highly decorative and culturally resonant Meiji figure, combining substantial scale, strong visual richness and classic Kutani workmanship.
Dimensions
Height: 21 cm
Width: 16 cm
Depth: 8 cm
Weight: 1126 g
Condition
Losses to gilding consistent with age, otherwise good antique condition.
Please study the accompanying photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance.