Hollow-molded, the bearded immortal wearing long flowing robes beneath a chainmail breast plate, seated on a cloth-draped throne with a snake coiled tortoise subdued below, the reverse inscribed with one character, painted in dark and russet browns on a white slop under a clear glaze. 
9.2 inch H (23.36 cm)
5.2 inch W (13.2 cm)
Note: Zhenwu, the perfect warrior, is one of the most important deities of the Daoist pantheon. His identity as a warrior god and association with the north, the direction from which China was constantly under threat, bolstered the role of the deity as a protector of state and the imperial family. Imperial dedications to Zhenwu peaked during the Yongle reign with the emperor crediting the god for his rise to the throne. 
Provenance: AARP Membership California Collector
Relevance: Denver Art Museum L32-605
Similar Item: Sold $2500 on March 24th, 2018 in Sotheby’s-New York, Lot 1748