Ceramic figure ‘Xuan Wu’, 20th century

This ceramic is modelled and polychromed with gilt detailing. It shows the representation of the classical Chinese mythological legend of Xuan Wu or ‘玄武’, where a large turtle raises its elongated body looking at the ferocious snake, which coils around its shell with a sinuous body covered in scales. These animals are depicted together, being important figures in Taoism as symbols of virtue, knowledge, longevity and strength.

Size: 23.2 x 21 x 25.3 cm