Antique Turquoise Statue of Zhenwu, Daoist God (1500s)

Note: We will be consulting with auction houses about this piece, but if you are interested, let us know.
 
This is a turquoise blue and cream glazed, or enameled, and partly unglazed sculpture of Daoist god Zhenwu sitting on a high backed throne with both hands resting on his knees, dressed in flowing turquoise robe with a high studded belt, the face with a little smile and long beard, a snake and a turtle entwined at his feet. This piece is believed to date back to the 16th Century Ming Dynasty based on online comparables.
 
We know this belonged to Alice and Marian Burr, grandaughters of the 8th mayor of San Francisco, who travelled to Asia in the 1920s and 1930s. It is seen in photos in a prominent place on their altar in their historic San Francisco home.
 
It was designed to be hung on a wall, with used cleaning cloths tucked in compartment behind. It has minor cracks (see finger and beard) and some discoloration appropriate with age, as well as possible remnants of gold leaf on his foot and face.
 
Zhenwu, also known as Xuan Wu until the Ming Dynasty, is known as a warrior, protector of the north (symbolized by the turtle and snake). A common god originally, he rose to peak popularity during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) as he was designated protector of the state and imperial family. In China today more temples are dedicated to him than any other god.
 
H 9 5/8" x L 6" x D 3 7/8"
3.4lbs