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Pair of Tang Dynasty Tricolor-Glazed Pottery Tomb Attendants
Medium: Glazed Pottery
Dimensions: [Dimensions not provided]
Condition: Good condition
Description:
This exquisite pair of Tang Dynasty tomb attendants (ca. 618-906 CE) is crafted in hollow-molded pottery and features figures representing consultants or personal attendants of the deceased. Each figure stands with feet discreetly tucked beneath the edges of flowing robes, which are adorned with the traditional sancai ("three-color") glaze in vibrant orange, yellow, and green hues.
Their hands are positioned together at the chest, with a small perforation between the palms—possibly designed to hold a staff, a ceremonial object, or a candle. Their faces exhibit delicate detailing, with pale pink pigment accentuating rounded cheeks, broad noses, full lips, and a solemn expression beneath large hats with draping fabric over the shoulders.
This set of two tomb attendants exemplifies the Tang Dynasty's mastery of ceramic artistry and its rich funerary traditions, where such figures were placed in tombs to serve and protect the deceased in the afterlife.
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