Dutch Delftware Chinese monk

Not many of these early Pu Tai Ho Shang figures in faience have survived. They were not modeled, but made in molds. Chinese Blanc de Chine figures probably served as examples, but the Delft modeler incorporated Dutch influences as well, trying to make this Chinaman look even more exotic by giving him a pipe, teacup, and saucer.

While the vogue for chinoiserie lasted, such figures were placed in porcelain cabinets among the vases, bowls, and other objects. It still seems rather strange that figures venerated in Asia as symbols of wisdom and good fortune were sought after in Europe as highly fashionable curiosa.

Figures of this type were also produced in other factories, particularly “De Metaale Pot” led by Lambertus van Eenhoorn. They further appear in the early years of the 18th century with polychrome decoration. There are a few known in black Delft as well, which however are extremely rare. One of these objects is part of the Salomon Stodel collection. Together with the monk in the illustration, they were recently part of an exhibition in the Kunstmuseum The Hague, named “Delftware WonderWare”.