A Pair of Rare Kangxi Blanc de Chine Porcelain Figures

A Pair of Rare Kangxi Blanc de Chine Porcelain Figures, Dehua Kilns, Fujian Province c.1680-1720. These unusual Kangxi porcelain figure probably depict Daoist gods, one is Zhenwu in his armour standing on a turtle with a snake, the turtle is inscribed between his feet with a single character. The other figure also in military uniform stands on a turtle which has the same inscription on its back, however there is no snake. The figure on the right matches one at Blenheim Palace, part of the Blenheim Palace Collection. This includes a very large display case full of Blanc de Chine porcelain. See Oriental Export Market Porcelain and its Influence on European Wares (Geoffrey A. Godden, Granada, 1979.ISBN 0246110570) page 272, plate 199. Godden mentions English Sale records describing ‘men on bests’ they were sold for 1 penny each in around 1700-1710. See Below For More Photographs and Information.