Chinese Seated Figure of a Lohan or Enlightened One

Fist in the air, one leg dangling, this figure treats a snarling lion like a bench.

This seated porcelain figure of a lohan or enlightened one is from Jingdezhen, Jiangxi Province, China, and is contemporary. Lohan are often shown in relaxed, expressive poses with distinct faces and robes, which sets them apart from the calmer and more formal images of the Buddha. Bare-chested man in a knotted scarf sits on a lying lion with its mouth open. One raised arm ends in a clenched fist while the other hand pats the animal's back. The glaze is thick, glossy and warm white. It is 6 inches wide, 2.5 deep and 5.5 high.

Brave, cheerful and seated on a very dubious cushion.