Lot 102, Auction 4/12/2026: Chinese Glazed Pottery Attendants, Tang / Ming Periods

$585.00

In stock

East Asia, China, Tang Dynasty, ca. 618 to 907 CE; Ming Dynasty, ca. 1368 to 1644 CE. A compelling lot of two Chinese glazed pottery attendant figures presents a striking dialogue across centuries, pairing a taller Tang Dynasty figure with a more petite Ming Dynasty counterpart. The larger figure, dating to the Tang Dynasty, stands with solemn composure, hands clasped at the chest in a gesture of respectful attention. Modeled in earthenware and finished with a warm amber glaze, the elongated body and columnar stance reflect Tang funerary sculptures emphasis on presence and dignity. The face is softly rendered with simplified features, while the tall headdress and long robe reinforce the figures formal role within the tomb context. Traces of burial wear and glaze loss contribute to its authentic surface history. In contrast, the smaller Ming Dynasty attendant is more compact in scale and livelier in coloration. Size: 2″ L x 2.5″ W x 9.5″ H (5.1 cm x 6.4 cm x 24.1 cm)

Clad in a green glazed upper garment and a yellow ochre skirt, the figure conveys a restrained sense of service through its modest posture and reserved gesture. The proportions are tighter and more upright, characteristic of Ming ceramic figures, with an increased focus on decorative glaze and surface finish rather than monumentality.

Together, these two attendants illustrate the evolution of Chinese funerary sculpture, from the expansive confidence of the Tang period to the more reserved and refined aesthetic of the Ming. Each was intended to serve the deceased in the afterlife, embodying ideals of loyalty, order, and ritual propriety. Unified as a pair, these figures offer both visual contrast and historical continuity, standing as enduring witnesses to changing artistic priorities and enduring beliefs across more than half a millennium of Chinese history.

Condition: Both have been repaired with break lines visible. Weathering to surfaces as shown, but, otherwise, nice presentations with good remains of glaze and scattered earthen deposits.

Provenance: private Rogers, Arkansas, USA collection; ex-Bosio collection, Miami, Florida, USA, 1960-2000

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all purchases.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.