A RARE 'DEHUA' 'ROMANCE OF THE THREE KINGDOMS' GROUPQING DYNASTY, KANGXI PERIOD |

well modeled depicting a young soldier, Lü Bu, reuniting with the beautiful Daio Chan while being observed by the jealous warlord, Dong Zhuo, peering at the amorous couple from behind a floor screen decorated with a qilin, all supported on a pedestal base with a barbed apron, coll. no. 1309

Ralph M. Chait Galleries, New York.
Christie's New York, 30th March 2005, lot 377.

The sculpture has a few chips to the base and minor potting flaws consistent with age and type, including a short firing tear to the screen.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The present model portrays a well-known episode from the 14th century historical novel attributed to Luo Guangzhong involving a fictional love triangle and the downfall of the tyrannical warlord, Dong Zhuo. Images of romantic assignations, taken from novels and plays, were popular during the 17th century appearing in prints, painted on porcelains, and it seems a natural evolution that the resourceful artisans of Dehua would produce delightful three-dimensional interpretations of these charming scenes. For a closely related  example see P. J. Donnelly, Blanc de Chine, New York, 1969, pl. 105B.