Tang dynasty (618–907)
This graceful pair of Tang dynasty painted pottery figures depicts a court lady and a male attendant, each modelled with softly defined features, balanced proportions and surviving traces of original polychrome decoration.
The female figure is shown in a long robe decorated with floral motifs, her hands raised in a poised gesture that conveys the elegance associated with Tang courtly representation. The male attendant wears a cross-collared tunic and stands with his hands clasped at the waist, his composed expression and upright posture creating a dignified counterpoint to the lady.
Subtle differences in facial modelling, hairstyle and costume give each figure a distinct individuality while preserving a strong visual harmony as a pair. The surviving painted decoration, particularly the floral ornament of the lady’s robe, adds richness to the sculptural forms and reflects the refinement of Tang dynasty ceramic artistry.
Together, the figures offer an engaging representation of Tang courtly life and the period’s sophisticated approach to figural pottery, combining naturalistic modelling with decorative detail and restrained elegance.
Female figure: 44 cm high
Male figure: 42 cm high
Provenance: Private English Collection
Tang dynasty (618–907)
This graceful pair of Tang dynasty painted pottery figures depicts a court lady and a male attendant, each modelled with softly defined features, balanced proportions and surviving traces of original polychrome decoration.
The female figure is shown in a long robe decorated with floral motifs, her hands raised in a poised gesture that conveys the elegance associated with Tang courtly representation. The male attendant wears a cross-collared tunic and stands with his hands clasped at the waist, his composed expression and upright posture creating a dignified counterpoint to the lady.
Subtle differences in facial modelling, hairstyle and costume give each figure a distinct individuality while preserving a strong visual harmony as a pair. The surviving painted decoration, particularly the floral ornament of the lady’s robe, adds richness to the sculptural forms and reflects the refinement of Tang dynasty ceramic artistry.
Together, the figures offer an engaging representation of Tang courtly life and the period’s sophisticated approach to figural pottery, combining naturalistic modelling with decorative detail and restrained elegance.
Female figure: 44 cm high
Male figure: 42 cm high
Provenance: Private English Collection
