Chinese Han Dynasty Polychrome Terracotta Deer Sculpture

A large-sized Chinese, terracotta figure depicting a naturalistically rendered, standing deer, dated to the Han Dynasty. The potter has created a strong physique, with attention to both the musculature and the anatomical features. These are reflected in its curved shape, which is reminiscent of Han practices of depicting animals in terracotta. The deer’s face is particularly striking, with bulging eyes that seem to be looking intently at something in the distance. The ears are pricked, adding a touch of alertness to the animal’s appearance. The deer’s snout is distinctive, featuring flared nostrils and a slightly open mouth. The hooves are also finely crafted with details, with linear grooves depicting the notched foot. To the reverse of the deer’s body, a short, tapering tail is sculpted. The deer is covered in a rich ochre pigment, with detailing added in red and black. A rare piece of unusually large size.