Rare bronze figure of Chinese goddess expected to star at Shrewsbury auction

A rare Chinese silver-inlaid, bronze figure of Guanyin, goddess of mercy and compassion, is expected to sell for up to £5,000 at an Asian Art auction in Shrewsbury on Wednesday (November 20).

The 55cms high figure from the Qing Dynasty, which is modelled standing atop a dragon, was discovered by Halls Fine Art’s Asian Art specialist Alexander Clement in North Powys.

“This quality, large figures from the late 18^th century or first part of the 19^th century is quite rare and Guanyin is a favourite in Chinese culture,” explained Alexander. “We sold a similar figure in 2017 for £7,200.

Another potential star of the 285-lot auction is a beautiful Japanese cloisonne box and cover by Hayashi Kodenji (1831-1915) which is expected to sell for up to £3,000.

From the Meiji era – late 19th century – the box is finely worked in silver and gold wire with a scene of Mount Fuji and a boat in the foreground.

“Kodenji was one of the masters of Japanese cloisonne and his work attracts a lot of attention,” said Alexander. “It has been consigned by a Shrewsbury and is expected to do well at auction.”

Each valued at up to £3,000 are a finely painted, 18th century Chinese famille rose fish bowl from a South Shropshire vendor and a 19^thcentury Chinese yellow ground dragon bowl.

A beautiful 18^th century Indian gouache painting of noblemen seated before a pavilion on a palace terrace attended by three maidens, is expected to fetch around £2,000 for a Kent vendor.

Chosen by Alexander as a possible surprise package is a Chinese month cup decorated with a peony, representing the month of April. Consigned by a West Midlands vendor, the cup carries an enticing estimate of up to £250 but could sell for a higher price.

“In every Asian Art auction there is always potential for a surprise but it’s becoming much harder to predict because buyers are much more selective,” he added.

Halls Fine Art’s saleroom is open to view the lots on Monday and Tuesday, November 18 and 19 from 10am to 4pm.