East Asia, China, Ming Dynasty, ca. 1368 to 1644 CE. A glazed ceramic figure of a warrior, dressed in heavy armor including a wonderfully plated chest piece protection over the shoulders, and a long tunic that hangs almost to the feet. A tall, conical helmet protects the figure's head. The figure holds a long spear and stands atop an integral hexagonal plinth. An outstanding piece that appeals to us today as it offers a window to the past, revealing customs, styles, and artistic activities of this ancient Chinese society. The head was molded separately from the body and can be removed from the neck. Size includes head: 4.55" W x 15" H (11.6 cm x 38.1 cm)
Tomb attendants like this one are part of a class of artifacts called mingqi - sometimes known as "spirit utensils" or "vessels for ghosts". They became popular in the Han Dynasty and would persist for several centuries. Alongside figures like this one were musicians, athletes, animals, structures… Even though they were mass produced, mingqi often show a high level of detail and naturalism. These were designed to assist the po, the part of the soul of the deceased that remained underground with the body while the hun, the other part of the soul, ascended. Hundreds of pottery figures like these were placed into tombs during the Ming period as well. In one undisturbed Ming Dynasty prince's tomb, archaeologists found an array of small figures placed as if in ceremonial procession; the deceased's books, paintings, clothing, and other personal affects were also present.
Provenance: private S.S. collection, Los Angeles, California, USA, collected before 2008
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#155878
Condition
Head is a separate piece from the body and fits inside with a long tab. Possible repair around neck. Otherwise in very fine condition with light deposits. Glaze is in fine condition, especially on the clothing.