Ancient Chinese, Tang Dynasty Terracotta Pair of "dancing ladies" sculptures with TL Test - (2)

Tang dynasty, 618-907. Lot of two "Dancing ladies" figures; China, Tang dynasty, 618-907. Terracotta decorated with cold-applied slip. Both attach thermoluminescence tests performed by QED Laboratoire. Dimensions: 50 x 28 x 19 cm each. A pair of Tang Dynasty female dancers. Both ladies are wearing a long flowing dress with flared sleeves, with their movements mirroring one another. Their facial features are accentuated with black and white paint and their hair is arranged in elaborate coiffure. Long sleeves cover their arms and palms modelled to show elegant movement. This is a rare, matching set. The dancers are stylistically modelled to impart a sense of grace and style for the entertainment of the owner in the afterlife, with enough of the original vibrant red, white and black pigments remaining. Statues like this are a rare find and reflect the golden age of court performances during Tang Dynasty. The performances were eclectic and on a grand-scale, sometimes with tens of thousands of performers. With its keen interest in other cultures, the Tang court received musicians and performing arts groups from many regions. Such a wide range of performers included: acrobats, ceremonial dancers, clowns, singers, musicians, martial arts masters… Provenance: Purchased by the current owner in 2021 in Madrid from a private collector (J. S.) , owned before 80's. The Supplier warrants that he obtained this lot legally. Provenance statement seen by Catawiki. Important information. The seller guarantees that he is entitled to ship this lot. The seller will take care that any necessary permits will be arranged. The seller will inform the buyer about this if this takes more than a few days. Important: For destinations out of Spanish territory: all our objects will be shipped after obtaining CERTIFICATE OF EXPORTATION by Ministry of Culture of Spain. We inform our clients that it may take between 4-8 weeks.