CHINESE HAN DYNASTY TERRACOTTA COURT LADY

Ca. 206 BC - 220 AD Chinese Han Dynasty, terracotta court figure. This large kneeling female figure is presented wearing the traditional Eastern Han Dynasty court attire, or shenyi, which comprises a long vest, tied to the waist and long, flaring sleeves. The vest is a brilliant white while the waist-tie and trim are picked out in brilliant pink and red. This particular lady has a finely detailed face showing red painted lips, a small nose, bright eyes and delicately arched eyebrows. The figure's long black hair is tucked behind her ears. Court ladies, otherwise known as n�guan ?? were present in the imperial palaces of all dynasties. Some served as consorts and concubines, but filled roles related to management of the imperial palace�'s private quarters. During the Han period there were 14 ranks of court lady. Service as a court lady raised the status of a lady in regards to marriage prospects. Provenance: Private collection of an Oxford professional, formed in the 1970s-1990s on the UK art market. Size: L:345mm / W:185mm ; 3.5kg