The Ho-Ho twin brothers

Hohos were a popular motif under the Chinese emperor Kangxi and were often depicted on porcelain or as figurines.

They represent twins, which is a symbol of good understanding. They carry a water lily and round vase and symbolise harmony and unity. In China, they are considered lucky charms.

Brussels pottery

These figurines, in faience or tin-glazed pottery, were produced in Brussels in the second half of the 18th century. We recognise the colours typical of Brussels production: blue, manganese and copper green.

The Museum purchased these figurines at the Brafa Art Fair in 2020 from a Brussels antique dealer who specialises in Brussels pottery and porcelain.

Why did we include this work in our collections?

• It is always difficult to attribute Brussels pottery because so little was signed in those days. A number of elements, however, confirm that the product was made in Brussels (the typical copper green, the floral motifs, the use and quality of blue and manganese).
• This pair is exceptional as there is no other similar form known in Brussels production. It establishes a clear link between Chinese porcelain production and its influence on European ceramics production.

Would you like to know more about this acquisition? Come and visit the museum to see it with your won eyes. You can also find more details about the work itself in the inventory sheet here available.