Two finely hollow-moulded terracotta statuettes from ancient China, dating to the Ming Dynasty. The figure is depicted standing, dressed in long, flowing robes, painted in vibrant blue or green and deep amber yellow. The hair is styled into an elaborate top-knot, painted in a muted brown. Areas left unpainted would have been 'cold-painted' after firing, contrasting with the vivid fired blue or green and amber pigments. The figure is shown with the left hand raised to the chest, as if holding something, possibly an offering or incense. Figurines like this were placed in tombs to guide the deceased on their journey to the afterlife.
The Ming Dynasty was known for its exceptional artistic achievements, partly due to its economic prosperity. Since the Han Dynasty, it was customary to bury terracotta miniatures of everyday objects with the deceased. These items, known as mingqi, or "spirit utensils" and "vessels for ghosts," were believed to help and assist the deceased in the afterlife. Mingqi were crafted in the form of cooking utensils, miniature replicas of houses, temples, furniture, and other items. Anthropomorphic and zoomorphic terracotta figures were also popular, designed to assist, entertain, and recreate the living world for the deceased.
Period: Ming Dynasty
Medium: Green/blue-glazed Pottery
Type: Figure
Size : 6cm(Diameter) x 21cm(Height)
Condition : Good
Provenance : Acquired in late 1990s from Hongkong
Reference :
1) Ancient & Oriental - Terracotta Tomb Attendants
(Type : Highly related)
https://www.antiquities.co.uk/blog/china-orient/terracotta-tomb-attendants/
2) La Maison De La Petite Sara S.r.l. - Archaeology section - A Black glazed Terracotta Statuette, Servant with Trumpet, Ming Dynasty
(Price realised : 700 GBP / Type : Highly related)
https://www.lamaisondelapetitesara.com/en/cat0_22848_25840/ancient-art/archaeology/p832632-ancient-chinese-terracotta-statuette-ming-dynasty-servant-with-trumpet.php
* Ming Dynasty glazed pottery figure
Ming Dynasty glazed pottery figures are remarkable artifacts that reflect the artistic and cultural richness of the period. These figures, typically made from porcelain or stoneware, are coated with vibrant, colorful glazes. The glazing techniques used during the Ming Dynasty were highly advanced, allowing for a wide range of colors and intricate details.
These figures depict a variety of subjects and activities, each crafted with distinctive colors and precise detailing. They represent different aspects of social and cultural life of the time, including religious figures, mythical beings, and everyday people engaged in various activities. The glazing process involved applying a vitreous coating to the pottery, which was then fired at high temperatures. This not only enhanced the durability of the figures but also added a glossy, decorative finish.
The use of different glazes and the precision of their application highlight the skilled craftsmanship of Ming Dynasty artisans. As a result, Ming Dynasty glazed pottery figures are highly valued by collectors and historians for their artistic and historical significance.
