Loading, please wait...
LOT 2142
Chinese Han Ceramic Animal Figure Group
HAN DYNASTY, 206 B.C.-220 A.D. OR LATER
3 1/4 - 4 1/4 in. (750 grams total, 7-11 cm).
Including a horse, coiled snake and cattle animal, all with stylised anatomical detailing. [4]
ProvenanceAcquired 1990s-early 2000s.
East Anglian private collection.
Cf. similar ceramic figure group in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1st-3rd century AD, inventory no.1994.605.21.
FootnotesThe popularisation of these models of daily life called mingqi over the course of the Han Dynasty (206 B.C.-220 A.D.) reflects dramatic changes in Chinese society. They are an exemplification of how power circulated beyond the imperial government and nobility to a broader bureaucratic classes, that looked for gratification for themselves and their families in the afterlife with clay, fashioned into models ranging from crude earthenware to fine glazed stoneware.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
-
Chinese Han Ceramic Animal Figure Group
Han Dynasty, 206 B.C.-220 A.D. or laterSold for (Inc. bp): £117
Including couchant cattle animals with stylised anatomical and coat detailing and a possible serpent. 850 grams total, 10-12 cm
Acquired 1990s-early 2000s. East Anglian private collection.
This animal group is typical of mingqi or 'spirit utensils' that accompanied the deceased of the Eastern Han Dynasty (25–220 A.D.). Miniatures of farm animals, utilitarian objects, and entertainers were believed to provide nourishment and amusement for the soul of the tomb occupant. -
.jpg)
Chinese Tang Ceramic Standing Camel
Tang Dynasty, 618-907 A.D. or laterSold for (Inc. bp): £585
Modelled in the round standing on a rectangular base and styled with semi-naturalistic anatomical detailing, its humps falling in different positions, tail held to one side of the rump, detailing to the coat, mane, eyes and muzzle. 3.55 kg, 44 cm high
From the R.M. Hicks OBE private collection, UK.
Camels symbolised the prosperity of the Silk Route, the trade routes between China, Europe, and the Middle East. This Bactrian camel, like most of the terracotta figures produced during the Imperial Tang period, was part of the funerary kit. -
Chinese Han Ceramic Animal Figure Group
Han Dynasty, 206 B.C.-220 A.D. or laterSold for (Inc. bp): £117
Including a horse, coiled snake and cattle animal, all with stylised anatomical detailing. 750 grams total, 7-11 cm
Acquired 1990s-early 2000s. East Anglian private collection.
The popularisation of these models of daily life called mingqi over the course of the Han Dynasty (206 B.C.-220 A.D.) reflects dramatic changes in Chinese society. They are an exemplification of how power circulated beyond the imperial government and nobility to a broader bureaucratic classes, that looked for gratification for themselves and their families in the afterlife with clay, fashioned into models ranging from crude earthenware to fine glazed stoneware.
