Sculpture, Standing figure, Statue (1) - Ceramic, Terracotta - Animal - Zhenmushou - China - Tang Dynasty (618-907)

Extraordinary and ancient Chinese ceramic (terracotta) statue portraying Zhenmushou. A "guardian of the tomb" or "spirit of the earth" dating back to the Tang dynasty (618-907 A. D.) . These funerary artifacts were called Ming chi or "spiritual objects". The figures of Zhenmushou were intended to frighten the profaners of tombs and to transport the dead in the passage to their new kingdom with at least the same prestige with which they had lived on the earth, in accordance with the Chinese belief that the next world would be a continuation of this world. It is also said that it prevents the spirit from traveling aimlessly. It is in very good general conditions (considering the age) , with signs of restoration (the crest broke and was restored by reassembling the pieces.) , see the photos, please. The sculpture includes the TL test (positive) from the Ralf Kotalla laboratory (Germany) and the certification of authenticity of our gallery, also complete with photos, description, age and measurements. Obtained from an old British collection, acquired between 1960-1990 in the European and Japanese Art Market. The TL test was done by examining three parts of the statue. Age: Tang dynasty (618-907 A. D.) Dimensions (including the base) : Height 74 cm - Width 34 cm - Depth 20 cm Signatures, trademarks, origin: Chinese origin Conditions: Very good The item will be carefully packed and shipped with secure and trackable express service. The seller of this lot hereby guarantees that this object was obtained legally. The seller guarantees that he is entitled to ship this object(s) . The seller will take care that any necessary permits will be arranged. The seller will inform the buyer about this if this takes more than a few days. Catawiki disclaimer: This piece has been dated based on a TL test. No further tests, such as, an analysis of pigments or radiography scans have been conducted to check the integrity of the piece.