Far East, China, Ming Dynasty, ca. 1368 to 1644 CE. A funerary figural pottery attendant on an integral pedestal with a finely delineated face presenting beautifully modeled and painted features, donning a traditional tall hat, a green glazed robe with a black glazed sash, and shoes. This votive statuette was originally created in two parts with a removable head, as was oftentimes the practice of ancient Chinese artisans. Funerary figures like this example were traditionallly buried in tombs to accompany and serve the deceased in the afterlife. The ancient Chinese viewed the afterlife as an extension of their life on earth. As Xunzi, a follower of Confucius, aptly stated, "One adorns the dead as though they were still living, and sends them to the grave with forms symbolic of life." Size: 3.75" W x 9.25" H (9.5 cm x 23.5 cm)

Provenance: Ex-Rosensteel collection

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#117726

Head was originally created as a separate piece from the body. In its current state, it has been affixed to the body. Expected surface wear with glaze losses and abrasions as shown. Small chip to back of left shoulder