Replica of the Yuan votive throne - Porcelain - China...

Massive white-and-blue porcelain votive throne (in Chinese it is known as 神座, shénzuò, literally “throne of the gods”). It has a rectangular structure that reproduces a miniature throne, with a tripartite backrest and two arms enriched with floral decorations, while on the seat two phoenixes are depicted flying among the clouds. The base rests on four molded feet that recall the mythical Makara figure (a fish-demon in Buddhist tradition). The inscription on the back provides information about its original meaning. The dedication reads: “Offered by the Governor (Cishi) of Jingzhou as a throne/altar for the spirits of the Dragon and the Phoenix.” The piece thus originated as a ritual or votive object intended for a temple or a domestic altar. With the devotional prayer that descendants receive abundant blessings and that the harvests of wheat and rice be plentiful. The indicated dating: “Made on a fortuitous day in the autumn month of the year Jichou of the great Yuan dynasty.” Made under the Yuan dynasty corresponds to 1349 (during the reign of Emperor Toghon Temür). Massive handmade reproduction, hand-painted, weighing about 5 kilograms. About 50 years old and makes a handsome impression on a bookshelf or in a living room.

Estimate:$24.65

View all items fromCatawikiorAsian Art