Figurine With Staff Appraisal

Seated Wise Man / Scholar Figurine with Staff

This item is a ceramic or porcelain figurine depicting an elderly wise man or scholar, possibly a 'Shou Lao' figure, standing and holding a gnarled staff. The figure is rendered with great attention to detail in the facial features, including a long, flowing white beard and mustache, along with white eyebrows. He wears a traditional robe, predominantly in a warm, glossy caramel-brown or light orange glaze. Over his left shoulder, there are hints of a lighter blue or grey garment, and a dark brown or black sash is visible near his waist, contrasting with the main robe. His hair, visible at the back, appears to be slicked back and subtly colored blue-grey under a small cap. The skin tone of the face and hands is a naturalistic light beige. The staff he holds is brown, resembling wood, with a twisted, knotty texture. The base of the figurine is integrated with the flowing robes, showing the tips of his footwear in a silvery-grey tone. The craftsmanship appears to be of good quality, with smooth glazing and definition in the sculptured elements. No visible cracks, chips, or significant wear are immediately apparent from the provided image, suggesting good overall condition. There are no discernible manufacturer's marks or signatures visible. Based on the style and subject matter, this figurine likely dates from the mid-20th century to contemporary times, reflecting traditional East Asian sculptural arts. Its approximate height can be estimated by comparison to the ruler placed next to it, appearing to be around 7-8 inches tall.