Rara coppia di guardiani templari cinesi in lega Metallica laccato – Attribuiti al tardo Ming / - Alloy - China - Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)

Pair of rare oriental/Cinese figures depicting armored guardians, made of patinated non-ferrous metal, presumably bronze or a copper alloy.

The two sculptures represent male figures in ceremonial clothing and armor, linked to the iconography of Templar or devotional guardians in Chinese and East Asian art. The rendering of faces, armor, and posture gives the pair a strong symbolic and protective character.

One figure has a more mature, bearded, stern face, with an authoritative and martial expression. Iconographic setting might evoke protective figures like Guandi / Guan Yu, a divinized general in Chinese tradition associated with loyalty, justice, and protection.

The other figure, younger and more composed, with hands placed in front, recalls the iconography of young Buddhist guardians, such as Weituo / Skanda, traditionally depicted as protector of the Dharma and guardian of sacred spaces.

Iconographic attribution is offered prudently and not certified: the figures are described as Chinese Ming/Qing-style temple or devotional guardians, or at least inspired by that artistic tradition.

The material appears to be non-ferrous metal. A magnetic test was performed and the magnet does not adhere at any point, consistent with bronze, brass, or other copper alloy.

The surface shows a natural dark patina and traces of reddish color, perhaps residue of lacquer, pigment, or ancient surface finish. Such traces contribute to the charm of the piece and are consistent with objects of devotional or decorative antiquity, often originally lacquered or polychromed.

On the back there are several holes. These may be related to a previous fixing system, mounting, or attachment to a wooden support, architectural structure, altar, or decorative element. This interpretation is offered as a hypothesis and not as a certainty. The holes are clearly visible in the photographs and are part of the material history of the objects.

Proposed era: China or Chinese cultural area, probably Qing period or later, in the style of Ming/Qing devotional sculptures. Possible earlier attribution, late Ming/early Qing, but not certified. Dating is therefore prudently indicated as about 17th–19th century / Ming-Qing style.

General condition good, compatible with age and nature of the objects: patina of time, surface wear, residual color traces, small marks and irregularities (note the base area in the photos). The objects have not been polished or restored, in order to preserve their patina and historical appearance.

Dimensions of each figure:
Height: about 26.5 cm
Width: about 7 cm

Prudentially indicated material:
Non-ferrous metal patinated, presumably bronze / copper alloy.

Subject:
Chinese/oriental temple or devotional guardians, perhaps linked to the iconography of Guandi / Guan Yu and Weituo / Skanda.

Provenance:
Private collection.

The photographs are an integral part of the description and document in detail the material, patina, condition, color traces, back and fixing holes.

Tracked shipping with careful and professional packaging. The two sculptures will be individually protected with shock-absorbing material and placed in reinforced boxes, with particular attention to their antique and delicate nature.