A large Chinese Neolithic pottery jar of the Majiayao culture located along the north bank of the Yellow River (Huang He) during the Machang phase. This generous archaic red pottery storage jar is of a round bulbous form that tapers to a narrow foot at the base and a slightly flared lip at its mouth. Decorated in black slip and vermillion pigments across the shoulder with geometric designs that appear to be stylized basket weave and plant sheaves. Two small loop handles at either side of the midsection would have facilitated cords for carrying the jar when laden with grain. Custom lucite stand to preserve stability.

Measuring 19 ½” high by 17” diameter.

Rare broad shouldered grain vessels from the period of the Spring and Autumn Annals, definitive as the earliest period of glazed incised ceramics. Decorated in an ecru glaze with cord patterns of stylized agricultural elements in concordance with their intended use. The narrow lip at the mouth of each jar would have served to affix an inset woven cover. Such fine examples of this period pottery are seldom seen.

Measuring 10” high by 13” diameter, and 11 ½” high by 14 ½” diameter.

A remarkably rare and expressive Western Han (202 BC – AD 6) dynasty archaic sculpture of a reclining Ram. This indigenous animal of the Han people was also a member of the twelve animals of the Asian zodiac, and rams were considered wise and gentle in their ways. Compared to other existent terracotta animals of this early period, this sculpture is relatively sophisticated in its composition of both its casting by mold and modeled details of bold curled horns, delicate ears and a countenance that appears to be smiling. Traces of the original painted pigments remain with vermilion in nose, mouth and ears, white slip to horns, eyes, hooves and delineation of wool, and black to the pupils. All in all, an exceptional example of artistic expression for the ancient Chinese
culture of Han.

Measuring 6 ¾” high by 13” long by 5 ½” (from side to side).

A Han Dynasty green glazed bas relief Hill Jar. The lid depicts a central peak surrounded by four subsidiary peaks with dragons, phoenix, and other mythological beasts among the peaks. The body consists of a molded frieze depicting feline, monkeys, boars and other beasts amid a mountainous landscape, as well as two tao tie mask holding rings. Supported by three bear totem feet.

Measuring 12" high by 9 ½" diameter.

A Western Han (BC 206 – 6 AD) dynasty terracotta sculpture of a standing court attendant with congenial expression and attentive gaze. This tall standing figure is of a larger scale than what we have previously seen. Originally the figure would have had wooden arms and worn a silk brocade court robe. This attendant brings insight into the daily function of a household of the Imperial Court.

Together with a custom made perspex stand, measuring 27” high 6 ½” wide by 7” deep.

A Northern Wei Dynasty pottery sculpture of a caparisoned horse. The sculpture of the Wei Dynasty was limited in production and very idiosyncratic of the period. This caparisoned horse is a premier example with cowry shell trappings and bridle with double tao tie guardian masks. He stands foursquare on a rectangular base, his long neck arched high and his slender head is held elegantly straight down, characteristic of the proud Ferghana breed of central Asia revered for their spirit and vitality.

Measuring 14" high by 12" wide by 9" deep. Accompanied by Thermoluminescence Dating Report.

Earth Spirit Guardian Figures

A charismatic pair of Northern Wei Dynasty mythological Guardians referred to as Earth Spirits and Zhenmushou (“ground-quelling beasts”) in Chinese. These auspicious beasts are seated on their rear haunches, their gaze ever alert as they serve their apotropaic function of protecting their owner from evil and malicious intent. These sculptures have bodies that are a hybrid between lions and dogs with raised tails and celestial flames that ascend their spines, symbolic of their supernatural origin. Characteristic of these rare archaic works of art are the differences to be found in their countenance, as one has human features and its companion mythological lion-dog features, symbolizing their combined strength of intelligence and prowess. Terracotta with traces of black and white slip pigments and vermillion to the mouth of the lion-dog. Of particular significance is the fact that these guardians have survived as a pair for more than 1,600 years. It is not unusual for only one of a pair to remain, and yet still be considered a treasured artifact. China, late 5th century.

Measuring 12” high.

A most commanding antique Chinese Tang dynasty glazed sculpture of a horse standing foursquare and alert, broad chested and powerful, ears pricked and head turned slightly to the left. The elegant proportions of this horse are indicative of a noble breed, a descendent of the Ferghana horses of the northern steps of Central Asia. This is a steed worthy of a member of the Imperial Court for whom such an exquisite horse (glazed in chestnut and cream) would have been commissioned. Organic elements such as horse hair tail and woven saddle blanket have been reclaimed by the earth over time.

Measuring 23 ¼” high by 22” wide by 9 ¼” deep, including custom base.

A Tang Dynasty (618-907) terra cotta sculpture of horse and rider with an engaging sense of presence. The horse stands foursquare with broad chest, powerful flanks and mane and a well-defined head, ears alert and nostrils flared. He is of the much-prized breed of Ferghana from the northeastern steps of China. Rare is a female equestrian here seated on a raised saddle over a saddle blanket and wearing a winter kaftan, her left hand is raised as that of a standard bearer. The face is exquisitely well defined with sentient presence. Still retaining pigments of vermillion, white slip and black. 

Measuring 20” high by 17 ½” wide by 6” deep.

*vermillion (a bright-red, water-insoluble pigment consisting of mercuric sulfide, once obtained from cinnabar, now usually produced by the reaction of mercury and sulfur)

A most impressive Tang Dynasty sancai glaze tall standing figure of a civil court authority. The dignitary stands, resolute of purpose, wearing the robes and headdress commensurate of his elite position as advisor to the imperial court. The remarkably large scale, sophisticated glaze of the period, and lifelike commanding presence of this archaic sculpture make this a rare and exceptional artifact.

Measuring 29” high.

A handsome Tang Dynasty terracotta sculpture of a Bactrian camel standing foursquare with head held high. He is the ship of the desert, created at the height of the silk road era and its influence of cultural exchange through goods and travelers. He wears a blanket of vermilion pigment over which he carries well laden saddle bags with traditional protective Tao Tie masks on both sides to ward off any unwanted event. Traces of original pigments remain throughout. Ex: Landy Collection.  

Measuring 12 ¼” high by 10 ½” wide by 5” deep.

A dynamic Tang dynasty sculpture of a powerful horse, the composition alive with the tension of the strength of his movement. The strongly defined head is turned slightly to the left with nostrils flared and brow focused. He is readied with blanket and saddle as he lifts the right leg in the alert manner of a horse that paws the ground in anticipation of his charge. This horse is a descendent of a noble breed, the Ferghana horses of the northern steps of Central Asia.

Measuring 22 ¾” high by 22” wide by 8 ½” deep.

An exquisite miniature Tang Dynasty portrait sculpture of a lady of the high court. She is depicted with gentle countenance, a formal headdress and the traditional robes of the period. Her robes are glazed in classic Tang Sancai pigments of green, amber and white. Her skin and hair show traces of black and vermilion for the details of her features. Circa late 700's to early 800's.

Measuring 11 ¼” high.