CHINESE MING DYNASTY GLAZED TERRACOTTA ZODIAC FIGURE (ROOSTER)

Ca. 1368-1644 AD or later . A glazed terracotta anthropomorphic figure, featuring a human-like body and a head of a rooster. Created using the hollow-moulding technique, the figure is depicted standing in an upright position, with both hands hidden under the garment and folded on the chest in a respectful gesture. The figure's attire is a bi-chrome, long and voluminous robe, embellished with pale blue glazed edges that lend a sense of refined elegance to the piece. The head of the figure features a rooster's beak, large, attentive eyes, and a red cockscomb, executed with remarkable attention to detail. In Chinese culture, the zodiac is a system of astrology that assigns an animal to each year in a repeating twelve-year cycle. The rooster is the tenth animal in the Chinese zodiac, representing honesty, hard work, and reliability. Those born in the year of the rooster are said to be confident, punctual, and responsible, with a strong sense of duty and a talent for leadership. Size: L:215mm / W:83mm ; 435g Provenance: From the private collection of a Somerset gentleman; previously in an old British collection, formed before 2000 on the UK /European art markets.