Gilt-bronze figure "Guan Yu", Qing dynasty

Gilt bronze.

Sculpture depicting Guan Yu, 关公 (Guāngōng) a Han official, seated on a throne with his hands on his thighs a menacing expression and long beard. The ears are large, the same as in depictions of the Buddha, but his robes are of military origin. Because he is regarded as brave, fighting and righteous throughout the generations and in the Buddhist world as one of the protectors of the Dharma.

The robes and throne are delicately carved with engraved elements of lotuses, scrolls, flowers and a continuous frieze. The armor consists of thick protections covering the chest, back, shoulders and legs with geometric interweaving in relief. This is followed by other protections such as animal-shaped epaulets for the shoulders, back protection that holds the waist in place with a knot, a belt with a fish motif and a head in relief below the stomach. And finally, a ceremonial headdress, pointed shoes and a tunic below that flies at the elbows and falls down the front. 

Height: 30.20 cm; Base size: 18.30 x 21.10 cm; Weight: 7.536 kg.

Provenance: Private European collection.