Han Dynasty Dog Terracotta Figurine

$410.46

An Ancient Chinese, Han Dynasty period, moulded terracotta statuette of a seated dog. The dog, possibly a Chow Chow, is presented in a naturalistic manner, with traces of the original dark pigment still visible. Many Chow Chow pottery items and sculptures from this period have been recovered, which testifies to the popularity of this breed. The origin of Chow Chow can be traced long before the rise of the Han Dynasty, with links originating from the Arctic Circle, then migrating into Mongolia, Siberia and finally China.

Date: Circa 206 BC-220 AD
Period: Han Dynasty
Condition: Fine, with traces of the original pigment visible.

SOLD

SKU: FP-250 Category: Tags: ,

Terracotta moulded zoomorphic and anthropomorphic figures are known in Chinese as mingqi. Such statuettes would have been placed in Chinese graves, to assist, protect and entertain the deceased in the afterlife. Statuettes of dogs, such as this fine example, would have been placed in the deceased’s tomb as guardians and companions. In Chinese mythology and culture were believed to be a symbol of loyalty, and statues of dogs were often used to ‘guard’ the entrances to temples or important places.

To discover more about Chinese terracotta statuettes, please visit our relevant blog post: Terracotta Tomb Attendants.

Weight 345 g
Dimensions H 12.5 cm
Culture

Pottery and Porcelain

Region

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