Bidspirit auction | Funeral dignitary in robe, Tang


Funeral dignitary in robe, Tang Chinese school, 7th-9th century - Partially glazed terracotta. Measures 23.5 cm in height. Funerary figure of a dignitary depicted standing with hands crossed over the chest, dressed in a long ceremonial robe and a tall, official headdress. The face displays idealized features with a serene and restrained expression, while the surface retains traces of yellowish glaze on the clothing and uncovered areas that reveal the light terracotta paste. The geometric simplicity of the body and the static frontality reflect the mingqi tradition of the Tang Dynasty, designed to spiritually accompany the deceased in the afterlife. The combination of restrained modeling and partial polychromy reveals the characteristic elegance of high-ranking Chinese funerary productions. The piece stands out for its formal balance and the quiet dignity of its sculptural presence. 23.5 cm in height.