Chinese Tang Whiteware Dish

A ceramic horse and female rider figure, modelled in the round on a rhomboidal base; the horse portrayed with semi-naturalistic anatomical detailing, medium-length mane, short tail dressed with a ribbon, its head angled slightly downwards and ears pricked forwards; the female rider modelled seated in a saddle, wearing a knee-length robe and boots, arms held in front of her body, hands held in a gripping position to accept reins (absent), her hair dressed in a top knot, stylised facial features; extensive remains of polychrome pigmentation. 5.1 kg, 45 cm high



Acquired in the 1990s. From a North Yorkshire private collection, UK. Accompanied by an original thermoluminescence analysis report no.C122h21 from Oxford Authentication.

In Tang art, poetry and painting the horse was exalted. The delight taken in portraying horses became an end in itself. Women were made to mount them, according to the Tang conception, so that the two can be considered together, introducing in China a fashion from Kotan.

A ceramic Bactrian camel modelled in the round in a dynamic pose, kneeling on a polygonal base and possibly in the act of standing up; saddle bags heavily laden with goods, semi-naturalistic anatomical and facial detailing, short tail held aloft; remains of polychrome painted pigment. 4 kg, 31 cm



Ex Hong Kong collection. London Mayfair gallery, UK. Accompanied by a thermoluminescence analysis report no.C122k20 from Oxford Authentication. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.11700-199213.

A jade box with curved profile, the base carved to the exterior with a stylised landscape composed of bounding deer, trees, mountains, swirling clouds and birds; lid with raised opposed fenghuangs pierced against a pierced field, flowering vines to the rim. 394 grams, 19.5 cm wide



Acquired London, UK, in the 1990s. Property of a London gentleman.