CHINESE TANG DYNASTY TERRACOTTA STANDING FEMALE MUSICIAN - TL TESTED

Ca. 618-907 AD. A terracotta female musician figure standing upright on top of the integral base, exuding a sense of poise and elegance. Her attire is composed of a green skirt and pink bodice, covered with a reddish shawl, which adds a touch of vibrancy to the overall appearance. The finely detailed facial features in black pigment offer a glimpse into the skillful techniques of the Tang Dynasty artisans. The pulled coiffure, ending in a double bun, was a popular hairstyle of the time and is captured beautifully in this sculpture. The musician holds sheng (mouth organ) in front of her with both hands, suggesting that she is in the midst of performing. During the Tang Dynasty, music was an integral part of court life and was performed on various occasions, including banquets, religious ceremonies, and festivals. Musicians were highly respected and were ranked according to their performance level, with the highest ranking members receiving better treatment than their lower-ranking counterparts. This piece has been precisely dated by means of a Thermo Luminescence analysis carried out by Ralf Kotalla, an independent German Laboratory. The samples collected date the piece to the period reflected in its style, whilst also showing no modern trace elements. The TL certificate with its full report will accompany this lot. Size: L:350mm / W:90mm ; 1.25kg Provenance: From the private collection of a Somerset gentleman; previously in an old British collection, formed before 2000 on the UK /European art markets.