Lot 237
East Asia, China, Ming Dynasty, ca. 1368 to 1644 CE. A charming pair of Ming dynasty pottery tomb attendants, each standing upright upon a rectangular plinth and dressed in the formal attire of court servants. Their rounded faces carry gentle expressions, the eyes softly lowered and lips subtly defined, conveying a sense of calm dignity typical of Ming funerary sculpture. One figure raises his hand in a gesturing pose, while the other stands with hands tucked within the sleeves of his robe, suggesting the quiet etiquette and disciplined bearing of attendants serving within an elite household. Both figures wear distinctive period garments, including knee-length tunics secured with front closures and layered skirts or robes beneath. Their hats differ in form - one a softly folded cap with flaring ridges, the other a taller rounded official hat - providing a subtle sense of individuality within the pair. Size of larger: 4.5" W x 11.3" H (11.4 cm x 28.7 cm)
Traces of original pigment remain across the surfaces, with areas of muted red, cream, and darker tones visible through the soft earthen patina developed over centuries. Such figures were created to populate the tombs of Ming elites, forming part of a miniature retinue intended to serve the deceased in the afterlife. Known as mingqi, or spirit objects, these sculptures symbolized the continuation of courtly life beyond death. Groups of attendants, musicians, soldiers, and animals were often arranged within tomb chambers to recreate the structure and comfort of the living household. With their expressive gestures, surviving pigments, and elegant proportions, this pair offers a vivid glimpse into the ceremonial and social world envisioned for the Ming afterlife.
Provenance: private Colorado, USA collection; ex-private Los Angeles, California, USA collection; ex-major gallery, Beverly Hills, California, USA, primarily acquired between 1985 and 2005
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#200032
- Condition: Some light surface wear as shown with nicks and abrasions commensurate with age. Otherwise, both are intact and excellent with good remaining pigments and scattered earthen deposits.
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