This is a beautiful depiction of the God of Longevity, as named by the Vietnamese people. He is holding a staff and bearing a symbol of immortality: the peach. The style, glazing, and coloration are characteristic of ceramics produced in the Bien Hoa region of Vietnam. The colors are similar to those seen in 19th century Shiwan pottery; however, the incised decorations and the specific combination of glaze colors mark the piece as Bien Hoa. The mark on the base of the figure can be found on items dating from the 1800's to items created by the Bien Hoa school in the 2nd half of the 20th century. Per TransAsiart.com, the Bien Hoa School used the marking from the beginning of the 20th century to the 1970's. This school ushered in a revitalization of pottery art in the region, as the products were exhibited and sold in Paris, ultimately receiving honorary distinction by the government. More information about Bien Hoa ceramics can be found in the Transaisart forum: http://www.transasiart.com/Ceramiques/ceramiques_vn/bienhoa/cvnbhpl03.htm.
The figure is in very good condition with no chips, cracks, or nicks. There are signs of age that are consistent with a production date that is prior .to the establishment of the Bien Hoa School in the early 1900's
The figure is 10.5" tall. The weight listed is in consideration of the packaging required for safe shipment.
