CHINESE MING DYNASTY GLAZED TERRACOTTA ATTENDANT

Ca. 1368-1644 AD or later . A glazed terracotta mingqi depicting a standing attendant on a tiered, integral base. He is portrayed in a noble and dignified manner, with an upright posture and an expression of calm composure. The gentle contours of the figure's face, including the high cheekbones, a prominent nose, and small lips, are carefully crafted with fine details such as the almond-shaped eyes, and the delicately arched eyebrows. The figure is dressed in a long, flowing green robe with contrasting accents on the sides, which are painted in red. The robe is tied with a sash of ochre color, which enhances the elegance of the ensemble. The figure carries a box-like object under his left arm and his both hands are clenched. Mingqi, or "spirit objects," were created to be buried with the deceased and were believed to accompany the soul into the afterlife. These objects were often crafted with great attention to detail and were intended to represent the various aspects of life that would be important in the afterworld. Cf. Christie's Live Auction 5564, Asian Art, 15 September 2005, Lot 407. Size: L:195mm / W:54mm ; 295g Provenance: From the private collection of a Somerset gentleman; previously in an old British collection, formed before 2000 on the UK /European art markets.