Lot 243: A Trio of Chinese Shiwan-style Glazed Stoneware Mudman Figurines
A trio of Chinese stoneware figurines, commonly known as mudmen, produced in the Shiwan style of Guangdong province. The group includes three distinct figures representing scholars or sages. The first figure is depicted seated at a dark-glazed writing desk wearing a scholar’s cap and pale green celadon-type glazed robes. The second figure is shown in a relaxed posture with a long white beard and a pipe, wearing white and blue glazed robes. The third figure is leaning over a stack of books holding a fan, dressed in pale green glazed robes. The pieces are formed from moulded and hand-finished stoneware. The garments are finished with a crackle glaze, while the flesh areas, including faces, hands, and feet, remain in an unglazed biscuit state with hand-painted details to the eyes and hair. These figurines are typical of 20th-century Chinese export wares. No maker’s marks or inscriptions are visible on the bodies.
Condition report:
The figurines appear to be in good condition overall. There is a presence of surface dust and minor grime consistent with age and display. No major chips, cracks, or restorations are apparent. Each figure bears an orange adhesive auction lot label with the handwritten number 243.
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