Shiwan-style Glazed Ceramic Mud Man Figurine

This item is a hand-crafted ceramic figurine in the style of Chinese 'Mud Men' (Shiwan art). The figure depicts an elderly male scholar or sage in a traditional stooped posture. The sculpture features a distinctive dual-finish technique: the head, including a long pointed beard and expressive facial features, is left unglazed in a natural matte terracotta or buff-colored stoneware, while the body is covered in a thick, high-gloss dark brown to black glaze. The glaze appears to be a tenmoku or iron-rich fluid glaze, showing subtle variations in color depth. Physically, the piece stands approximately 6 to 9 inches tall (estimated based on context), with a solid, weighted form. Notable features include the pierced tiny holes for eyes and the detailed, incised lines of the beard and hair knot. The condition shows significant surface dust and grime, particularly in the recessed unglazed areas, but no major structural cracks or chips are immediately visible. The style suggests it was likely made in the Guangdong province of China, potentially in the mid-20th century (c. 1950s-1970s). The craftsmanship is evident in the characterful facial expression, which is characteristic of the expressive folk-art style of Shekwan pottery. The quality is indicative of a decorative export piece rather than a modern mass-produced plastic imitation.