Realistically sculpted in the round, the figure stands on all fours with its head turned toward the viewer and its mouth slightly open. It is glazed in a rich brown tone with black markings that mimic the texture of fur.

This rare and unusual form appears to be directly inspired by a European model—possibly Meissen or another German porcelain example—that was reproduced in China for export to the European market.

Chinese export porcelain depicting wolves is exceptionally rare, as wolves were not commonly featured in traditional Chinese decorative arts. However, during the 17th and 18th centuries, Chinese porcelain artisans began producing figurines and decorative objects influenced by Western designs, often specifically for export to European markets. These pieces catered to European tastes and introduced new animal motifs that were highly sought after by collectors.

Like the present example, these animal figures were meticulously modeled with remarkable attention to detail, capturing the texture of fur, the expressions of the face, and naturalistic postures. Their forms closely resemble European porcelain styles, particularly those of Meissen, renowned for its lifelike animal sculptures. The direct influence of Meissen and other European porcelain workshops is evident in the modeling and finishing of these pieces, which were typically rendered in the round and depicted standing or in dynamic poses. Finished with glazes ranging from earthy hues to vibrant tones, these figures exemplify the fusion of Chinese craftsmanship and Western artistic preferences, reflecting the rich cultural exchange facilitated by trade during the Qing Dynasty, particularly under the reigns of emperors Kangxi, Yongzheng, and Qianlong.

Export porcelain foxes were produced in limited numbers, designed to satisfy the European fascination with exotic and finely crafted objects. Adorned with intricate details, such as fur-like glazing and hand-painted accents, these figures were likely part of larger decorative ensembles or themed collections, intended for display in aristocratic homes and palaces. Their rarity today makes them highly desirable among collectors and scholars of Chinese export porcelain.