When one considers the myriad versions of the old antique mudfigures,
it is immediately realized that these old world figurines are completely handmade.
It is my opinion that the artistic merits of these genuine figural renditions
rival most any modern sculptural presentations appearing at any public art display in the country.
It is well known, the antique mudfigures are not the product of a singular artist, but
created by the hands of many artists, each doing his honorable duty to complete the tasks assigned, perhaps one group
sculpting, another glazing and yet another attending the kilns where these amazing curios were fired.
Make no mistake about it, these figurines are traditional artworks, massed produced mechanized Chinese
ceramic items currently filling the asian decor void are no comparison to the original hand crafted mudfigures.
If it were possible that an artist were to sign them, then they would lose the inherent
value assigned to them as a cooperative measure, a historical implement of the ancient world. No, a signature would only relegate
them to the dusky halls of a state museum and collectors such as the likes of me would only be able to admire the intricate handiworks
from a distance, perhaps as a computer image from a distant place on the other side of the world.
But happily that isn't so, as so many of these mudmen are available in this country today,
that the sheer numbers make it likely that about anyone can own one or a group of them, perhaps even start their own collection
of antique chinese mudfigures.
