Chinese Song Dynasty Terracotta Brick with Hand Print

Ca. 960-1279 AD. Song Dynasty. A fine terracotta brick with a nicely carved high-relief figure playing a flute on a red background. The figure is dressed in a long floating gown that preserves traces of red pigment and an elaborate red headdress. A well-preserved handprint is visible on the back. The Song Dynasty, which ruled most of China between 960 and 1279 AD, was responsible for many innovations in the fine arts, for the introduction of the first banknotes (paper money) , and for the first known use of gunpowder. For more information on the Song dynasty, see Kuhn, D. (1987) . The Song Dynasty, 960 to 1279: A new society reflected in its culture. Acta Humaniora, Weinheim. Size: L: 300mm / W: 295mm ; 6. 02kg. Provenance: Property of a North London gentleman; previously acquire on the UK/European art market in the 1990s. Catawiki disclaimer: This piece has been dated based on style and patina. No further tests, such as, a TL test, an analysis of pigments or radiography scans have been conducted to check the integrity of the piece. Possible over-carving and restoration.