An ancient Chinese Han dynastyterracotta figure of a warrior, dating to 206 BC – 220 AD.
A particularly large and decorative example of Han art.
The warrior is shown in typical Han dress, with baggy trousers, long-sleeved, flaring gown with thick collar. He wears a breastplate and simple close-fitting helmet. His pale, oval face with black painted eyes, moustache and red lips. The right arm is bent at the elbow, the hand perforated, possibly to take a woodenspear (long sinceperished). His right hand lies to his side and probably would have held a shield in antiquity. Rather than a faithful reproduction of life, this figure is a refined example of Han abstract art, which despite its lack of naturalism has a way of reducing subjects to their simple essence.
Figures such as this were placed in tombs in early China and were intended to guard the entrance of the chamber from unwanted guests or spirits. They are referred to as tomb guardians and are often in the form of armed warriors. The most famous tomb guardians are the warriors of the terracotta army, found in the tomb of the first Emperor.
Height: 18 ¼ inches.
Condition: Very good. Some restoration to the collar, right proper foot reattached, head probably reattached. Some retouching to the painted features of the face, otherwise all original pigment.
Provenance:
Ex. British private collection, acquired 1980’s.
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