Antique Chinese Carved Wood Dancing Court Lady - Tang Dynasty Style, Polychrome & Gilt, circa 1920s

A striking carved wood figure of a dancing court lady, China, circa 1920s, modeled in a Tang Dynasty-inspired dance pose with one arm raised and the body subtly turned to suggest fluid movement. The carving is expressive and confident - this is a sculptural object with genuine presence, not a decorative reproduction.

The figure retains original polychrome decoration in mineral blue, pale gold-apricot, soft pink, and gilt. The blue pigment is consistent with lapis-derived mineral color historically used in Chinese sculpture. Gilt details remain visible at the shoes, belt, and hair ornament. The face is full and delicately modeled in the Tang aesthetic tradition, while the body is slender and elongated - a combination that feels referential and knowing rather than merely imitative.

Surface wear and pigment loss are consistent with age and handling, revealing areas of exposed wood that add depth and authenticity to the surface. These areas support the early 20th-century origin and are entirely consistent with a piece of this age and character.
Presented on a later gilt circular base that complements the figure's palette.

Origin: China
Period: Early 20th century, circa 1920s
Material: Carved wood with original polychrome and gilt
Style: Tang Dynasty-inspired court figure
Condition: Good antique condition; surface wear and pigment loss consistent with age
Dimensions: 5" x 5" x 13"

A rare and expressive example of early 20th-century Chinese decorative sculpture - suitable for a serious collection or a designed interior where cultural depth and visual presence matter equally.


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Wear consistent with age. Areas of pigment loss, surface abrasion, and small chips throughout, most visible at the sleeves and hem. A large age-related crack is present along the back of the figure, running vertically through the robe; the crack is stable and does not affect structural integrity. An iron red "9-1" marking is painted on the back of the robe, likely a later inventory or collection number. Original polychrome and gilt remain visible, including intact gilt at the shoes, belt, and hair ornament. Structurally sound. Stand not included.

Origin:
China

Materials & Techniques:
Polychrome

Details:
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Country of Origin: China

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Wear consistent with age. Areas of pigment loss, surface abrasion, and small chips throughout, most visible at the sleeves and hem. A large age-related crack is present along the back of the figure, running vertically through the robe; the crack is stable and does not affect structural integrity. An iron red "9-1" marking is painted on the back of the robe, likely a later inventory or collection number. Original polychrome and gilt remain visible, including intact gilt at the shoes, belt, and hair ornament. Structurally sound. Stand not included.