Description:

East Asia, China, Han Dynasty, ca. 206 BCE to 220 CE. A molded pottery votive for burial in the tomb, the scene depicts an animal pen and pond - the upper rim forms a fence surrounding the recessed basin. Perched on the rim and facing the four corners of the pond in alert stances are ducks or geese, and 4 fish radiating from around a central goose. Geese are known to be good protectors, especially in a natural setting or on a farm, they have a strong instinct to protect their territory against threats. Tomb pottery like this model are part of a class of artifacts called mingqi, and geese were perfect protectors and sources of food for the deceased in the afterlife. Mingqi recreations of animals, musicians, athletes, structures, and food - anything the deceased might need to recreate the world of the living - were made and deposited in tombs during this period. Size: 9.25" L x 9.5" W x 5.5" H (23.5 cm x 24.1 cm x 14 cm)

This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full printed and bound report will accompany the item upon purchase.

Provenance: private Superior, Colorado, USA collection; ex-private Blair collection, California acquired before 2005

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#181321

  • Condition: Repaired from several large pieces. Break lines radiating over the rim and geese. Chips and abrasions to these areas and surface losses. Losses to geese beaks and loss to fence rung. Nice iridescent glaze and mineral deposits. Tl test hole on the base and second Tl hole under top rim.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

March 17, 2024 9:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 27.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000