East Asia, China, Tang Dynasty, ca. 618 to 906 CE. A pair of mold-formed pottery tomb figures known as mingqi, representing female court musicians. They stand at attention wearing robes and holding their instruments at the ready, one with a panpipe and the other with a stringed instrument, perhaps an erhu that became popular during this era. Mingqi or mortuary wares were made to resemble people, animals, and structures then entombed with the deceased to accompany them in the afterlife and provided aid or entertainment, such as music, to recreate the life the deceased might have led (or wish they had). Size: 15.125" H (38.4 cm)
Please note that this piece is a dropship item, meaning that it will be shipping from the consignor’s location. All information regarding condition, size, stone identification, and metal content have been provided by the consignor. This item is heavy/oversized and will require 3rd party shipping. Please inquire about shipping cost prior to bidding.
Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010; ex-Dr. Edmund Bourke collection, Yonkers, New York, USA, Collection #CH78 A & B, acquired in Guanjou, China, September 2002
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#178590
Condition
Head on one is reattached, and both are repaired from several original pieces and restored with infill over break lines. Great remaining pigments and mineral deposits on surface.