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This complete set of twelve Ming dynasty pottery figures represents the traditional Chinese zodiac, or 十二生肖, comprising the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.
Each zodiac animal is interpreted in anthropomorphic form, combining an animal head with a human body dressed in long robes. Although conceived as a unified group, the individual figures display subtle variations in modelling, posture and expression, giving each animal its own character while maintaining a consistent sculptural language across the set.
The twelve zodiac animals form one of the most enduring systems of symbolism in Chinese culture. Arranged as a complete cycle, they correspond to the twelve-year calendrical sequence and have long been associated with concepts of time, identity, direction and traditional Chinese cosmology.
The restrained modelling, elongated robes and individually rendered animal features give the group a distinctive decorative presence. Preserved together as a complete set, the figures provide an engaging example of Ming dynasty ceramic sculpture and the continued importance of Chinese zodiac imagery during the period.
A particularly appealing group for collectors of Ming dynasty pottery, Chinese ceramic figures and traditional zodiac art.
This complete set of twelve Ming dynasty pottery figures represents the traditional Chinese zodiac, or 十二生肖, comprising the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.
Each zodiac animal is interpreted in anthropomorphic form, combining an animal head with a human body dressed in long robes. Although conceived as a unified group, the individual figures display subtle variations in modelling, posture and expression, giving each animal its own character while maintaining a consistent sculptural language across the set.
The twelve zodiac animals form one of the most enduring systems of symbolism in Chinese culture. Arranged as a complete cycle, they correspond to the twelve-year calendrical sequence and have long been associated with concepts of time, identity, direction and traditional Chinese cosmology.
The restrained modelling, elongated robes and individually rendered animal features give the group a distinctive decorative presence. Preserved together as a complete set, the figures provide an engaging example of Ming dynasty ceramic sculpture and the continued importance of Chinese zodiac imagery during the period.
A particularly appealing group for collectors of Ming dynasty pottery, Chinese ceramic figures and traditional zodiac art.