Celestial Maiden or Chang'e Holding a Basket of Peonies
Decorative Sculpture, Asian Table Ornament • Mass-produced in the manner of Dehua porcelain; likely a Chinese or Hong Kong workshop product for the export/decorative market.
Style & Movement
Neoclassical Chinese / Chinoiserie Decorative Art
Medium & Technique
Cast Polystone / Resin composite with Blanc de Chine-style finish; molded and hand-finished on a carved dark wood or faux-wood base.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (c. 1970–1990)
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 14-18 inches in height; vertical figural format.
Subject Description
A celestial maiden, possibly the goddess Chang'e, depicted in flowing robes amidst stylized clouds and blossoming peonies. She carries a cornucopia-like basket. The composition utilizes traditional iconography of longevity, elegance, and prosperity.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Very Good. The surface appears bright with no major visible structural cracks, though minor dust accumulation is present in the crevices.
Estimated Market Value
$100 - $250 USD
Auction Estimate
$80 - $150 USD
Provenance History
Acquired via secondary market/private collection; typical of high-end giftware or home decor imported during the late 20th-century Asian art boom.
Art Historical Significance
Representational of the 20th-century revival of traditional Chinese aesthetics for a global middle-class audience. It mimics the prestigious Dehua 'Blanc de Chine' porcelain tradition but uses modern materials to achieve complex, under-cut details.
Notable Features
Highly intricate openwork modeling of clouds and petaled flowers; the use of a dark, scrolled base provides a high-contrast aesthetic typical of traditional Chinese display.
Condition Issues
Minor surface abrasions possible; potential yellowing if exposed to direct UV light over time; dust accumulation in deep molded recesses.
Conservation Recommendations
Gentle cleaning with a soft, dry brush or pressurized air. Avoid chemical solvents. Display away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration of the resin.