Modeled in the full round with some European influence. The Man is likely Chinese or Central Asian. He is posed seated on a stepped rocky outcrop. He is dressed in a long coat with markings to simulate fur, and holds a pipe. The Fu lion stands in mid-step to his right, with both exchanging amused glances. Brightly painted in colorful enamels.
Height: 7 ¼ (18.4 cm.)
Width: 6 ½ (16.5 cm.)
This is a very amusing and unusual subject reflecting the European fascination with Chinese culture and animals (even mythological). It is a rare type and the second of its form from this period that we have handled in 30 years.
A related Kangxi period example is in the Copeland Collection now in the Peabody Essex Museum (acquired from our Gallery) with a European figure with Fu Lion. Another similar group is in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, with the European man seated upon the Fu lion.