Dimensions: Height 26 cm Wide 24 cm Depth 15 cm
Weight: 8056 grams with wood base

The deity is portrayed seated in meditation posture, wearing a richly detailed suit of armor beneath flowing robes, the breastplate finely decorated and the lap adorned with a coiled dragon in high relief. His hands rest on his knees, the right held in varadamudrā (gesture of generosity), the left grasping a ring-shaped attribute. The face is rendered with serene yet powerful expression, framed by long pendulous ears and neatly parted hair. The surface shows a dark patina with traces of black lacquer and gilding, enhancing the dramatic presence of the sculpture. The reverse is hollowed, consistent with traditional lost-wax bronze casting methods.

Zhenwu, also known as the “Perfected Warrior” (Xuanwu), is one of the most revered Daoist deities. Patron of the north and associated with martial power and cosmic protection, he was worshipped widely during the Ming dynasty, when the imperial court strongly promoted Daoist cults. He is often shown seated in dignified stillness, clad in armor and accompanied by dragons or snakes, embodying both authority and spiritual control.

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Examples of bronze Zhenwu figures can be found in the collections of the Palace Museum, Beijing, and the Shanghai Museum. Auction precedents confirm the high demand for Ming-period bronzes of this Daoist protector deity, especially those with intact lacquer and incised detail.

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