Hehe Erxian Porcelain Figures Blue White Hanshan Shide Sculpture w Bat Box 11"

A fabulous and unusually substantial Chinese blue-and-white figural group with layers of auspicious symbolism! This 11 piece appears to depict the Hehe Erxian—the Immortals of Harmony and Union—traditionally associated with the legendary companions Hanshan and Shide.The two wonderfully expressive figures are modeled in loose, elaborately decorated robes covered with cobalt-blue floral, wave, geometric, and foliate patterns. The smaller figure holds open a box or basket from which a brown bat emerges, an especially charming and meaningful detail. Their attributes often employ visual and phonetic rebuses: the box, “he,” can evoke harmony or union, while the bat, “fu,” is a classic symbol of blessings and good fortune. Together, the imagery combines the ideas of harmony, union, and auspicious fortune.  “Made in The People’s Republic of China” in English and Chinese, confirming post-1949 manufacture. The modeling, scale, and export label suggest a mid-to-late 20th-century Chinese decorative porcelain piece rather than an earlier antique example.  • Size: Approx. 11 tall x 8 wide x 6 deep • Condition: Excellent vintage condition. No chips, cracks, repairs, or losses noted. Original PRC paper label remains on the underside.