Description

Overview: Offered for auction is a beautifully preserved antique Chinese silk "opera" figure representing a high-ranking military general or legendary hero. This piece is a classic example of early 20th-century Chinese craftsmanship, likely produced during the late Qing Dynasty or the early Republic period for the export market.

Construction & Detail: The figure features a hand-painted composition or lacquered clay face with finely detailed facial features and a traditional long beard. He is dressed in elaborate, hand-tailored silk military regalia, including layered "armor" panels embellished with intricate metallic gold-thread embroidery and vibrant blue silk accents. The figure is set against a padded white silk background, typical of high-quality presentation pieces of this era.

Condition: The figure is in Very Good Antique Condition. It has been protected for decades within its original wood and glass-fronted display box, which has kept the silk colors vibrant and largely free from dust.

• Face: Shows some minor age-related crazing (cracking) to the lacquer, which is expected and authenticates its age.

• Silk: The embroidery remains bright and intact with no significant "shattering" or tearing visible.

• Box: The original box is included, showing some wear consistent with age, but remains structurally sound.

Dimensions: box 11in by 5in 

Keywords for Search

Antique Chinese opera doll, silk figure, military general, Qing Dynasty, Republic period, clay face doll, embroidered silk armor, export art, Chinese folklore hero, boxed antique doll, hand-painted composition head, Asian militaria, vintage oriental figurine, silk embroidery, Chinese theatrical art.