A BRONZE DIGNITARY, MING China, 1368-1644. Cast seated on a rocky throne, dressed in a flowing robe with a rectangular rank badge in high relief and holding a scepter. The face with a graceful expression. Note the characteristic five-pointed beard. Condition: Good natural patina with remnants of lacquer gilding. Malachite encrustations mostly on the inside. Unsealed. Old wear and some tiny nicks here and there. Provenance: English private collection. Weight: 575.9 g. Dimensions: Height 15.5 cm.