A scroll painting of Chinese ink and color mounted on silk. Portrayal figure of the general GuanDi, modelled seated on a throne with a draped elongated green robes, the hair covered with a scholar's headscarf tied at the top with a ribbon, the face with a serene expression, with both hand resting on the lap hiding behind the robes. The figure characterized with fine hair and beard. Showing themed lettering inscriptions on top, followed by iron-red artist's signature seals.

LOT NOTES:

Ding Guanpeng (active 1708-1771) was a Chinese painter who lived during the Qing dynasty.
A native of Beijing, he was active from the later part of the Kangxi era (1661-1722) to the middle part of the Qianlong era (1735-96). At one point he studied oil painting under Giuseppe Castiglione. He was noted for painting people and landscapes. He spent about 50 years in the Palace Painting Academy and drew nearly 200 pieces.

Two figures have been adopted by Mahayana temples as Dharma Protectors. The two warriors vow to look after the teachings and protect those who practice them. The first is Guan Di /Guan Yu, a Chinese general of the Kingdom of Shu during the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280 AD). He is a folk hero and very much part of traditional Chinese Taoism and Shenism. This red or gold faced and bearded figure can be seen at the entrance of the main hall of many temples in China. He carries a halberd and has a stern expression. His usage is a classic example of non-Buddhist entities being brought into the pantheon.
Chinese painting of a portrait of GuanYin/GuanDi with calligraphy. Inscribed and signed, with seals of the artist Liang Shizheng.

Dimension: 75-1/2" L x 19-1/2" W (painting): 23-1/2" L x 13-1/2" W

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