Collection of eight turquoise-glazed biscuit porcelain figures of Budai, Ch

A rare collection of eight brush rests made of turquoise-glazed biscuit porcelain.
The figures depict Budai—a popular Chinese deity associated with happiness, abundance, and prosperity—seated with his belly exposed and wearing his characteristic smile.
They are crafted from biscuit porcelain and covered in a remarkable, deep turquoise glaze.

These pieces originated from the kilns of Jingdezhen, China, and date to the reign of the Kangxi Emperor (1661–1722).

During the 18th and 19th centuries, they were fitted with elegant mercury-gilt bronze mounts. Two bases featuring openwork friezes and a particularly refined design appear to date from the Louis XVI period, while the other mounts date to the mid-19th century.

Good condition; minor losses and restorations to the ceramic.

Dimensions:
Height: 7 to 8.5 cm
Width: 6.5 to 8 cm

Our assessment:

Originally intended to serve as brush rests on the desks of scholars, these small sculptures reflect the Chinese elite's appreciation for cabinet objects that combined utility with symbolic significance.
The quality of the porcelain body, the fine modeling, and the rich glaze allow this set to be attributed to the imperial kilns of Jingdezhen during the reign of the Kangxi Emperor (1662–1722).
From the 18th century onwards, these Budai figures were highly sought after by European collectors. Imported from China via prominent Parisian *marchands-merciers* (luxury goods dealers), they found a place in the most prestigious private collections. Their exotic nature, high-quality craftsmanship, and brilliant glazes perfectly suited the burgeoning taste for *chinoiserie*. To further enhance their value, they were frequently fitted with gilt-bronze mounts or bases crafted by the finest Parisian bronziers, transforming these scholars' objects into true works of art destined for aristocratic homes.
The grouping of eight pieces preserved together constitutes a truly exceptional set. These Kangxi-period porcelain brush holders are rare enough when they appear individually on the market; finding a matching pair is uncommon, and the survival of such a substantial collection is even more remarkable. The presence of several period mounts—some dating back to the late 18th century—further heightens the historical significance of the set. This rarity makes the collection particularly noteworthy for connoisseurs of antique Chinese porcelain and Far Eastern-style mounted objects.