A LARGE SANCAI-GLAZED EARTHENWARE MODEL OF AN EARTH SPIRIT

Estimated Value:

1.500 € - 2.500 €

Result:

971 € incl. Premium and VAT

Description:

China, Tang dynasty
H. 77 cm
This earth spirit, also known as "zhenmushou", literally "beasts guarding the tomb", was part of an elaborate entourage of funerary figures. The ghost has a half-human face with the body of an animal, with wings and hooves.
From the collection of Dr Herbert J. Exner (1928-2023), assembled from the 1960s to the mid-1990s
Lead glazes were introduced during the Han dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD) and further developed during the Tang dynasty (618-906) to use the striped "sancai" glazes (tri-colour glazes) in amber and green depicted on these pieces. During firing, the colours of the glaze mix naturally and form vertical streaks. These streaks, which drip like wax, come from the colour oxides contained in the glaze. Copper oxide forms green tones, while iron oxide produces brown and yellow colours. The custom of making "mingqi" or grave goods was an ancient practice. It was believed that these goods were necessary for the deceased in the afterlife - Minor rest.

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