ANTIQUE CHINESE MUDMAN WITH COIN AND PEACH - from SUEZYT

ANTIQUE MUDMAN

One of the most popular of the old mud figures.  He is well detailed featuring a coin and a peach to symbolise long life and wealth.

Seldom in mint condition because of their use. The wear from age and damage are considered to add character to these mud figures. 

There is the mark “China” on the base, which dates the figurines between 1890 and 1919.  The bottom is open all the way around and has a thinner edging.  This means it is hand made and a true antique mud man and did not come from the newer moulds.

Most mud men are very detailed and this one is no exception with locks of hair and beard.  There is the desired inside cavity, mark, and the ears and eyes have holes.

The greater detailed features, the more likely the mud figure has been made by a master artist, rather than a student.   The hair, face, limbs and the creasing in the clothing, as well as any object the mud man might be holding.
 
As is probably the case with these figurines, the artist just picked a small piece of mud and in no time made a figurine out of it by using two fingers. For the average-sized figure, the 'mud' or clay for the figures was pressed into a mould by hand.  Each part was individually moulded and assembled by the artist--thus, the add-on pieces of clay are quite evident,
 
This Old Man Figurine with Yoke  is 12cms high and the left edge of the yoke is missing.  Good weight - 191 grams, stand perfectly straight.