Chinese Ming Dynasty Petite Glazed Terracotta Bench from the 17th Century

A petite Chinese Ming Dynasty glazed pedestal from the 15th or 16th century with polychrome finish. Crafted in China during the prestigious Ming Dynasty, this petite pedestal table...

A Chinese Ming Dynasty painted terracotta courtsman figure with original polychromy. Attracting our eye with its weathered appearance and subtle polychromy, this Ming Dynasty terracotta courtsman figure exudes historical charm and elegance. This exquisite statuette, dating from the Chinese Ming Dynasty, features a courtsman resting on a hexagonal base, providing a stable and aesthetically pleasing foundation. Topped with a simple headdress and clothed in a long, flowing robe, the figure showcases a slight movement of the hips, creating a sense of liveliness and grace. His right arm is extended in a gesture, while his left arm remains hidden under his clothes, adding an element of mystery and sophistication. The original polychromy, though weathered, adds a touch of vibrant color that enhances the figure's visual appeal and historical authenticity. This Chinese courtsman figure will make for an exquisite decorative addition to any home. Its refined elegance and rich cultural heritage make it a versatile piece, perfect for placing on a commode, side table, or shelf. Whether in a living room, study, or entryway, this Ming Dynasty figure will bring a touch of ancient Chinese artistry and timeless beauty to any interior space. With its harmonious blend of form and function, this painted terracotta courtsman figure celebrates the enduring appeal of Ming Dynasty art...

17th century Ming dynasty Chinese Zitan libation cup silver inlaid, of deep oval form , the exterior carved in high relief and undercut around the sides and base with gnarled branche...

A fine set of a six court attendants as in the Forbidden City of Beijing, elegantly dressed in a Green & Red Daopao – a traditional men’s formal attire from the Ming Dynasty dated 1368-1643 A.D. – with glazed robes and Red Pigment remains in their hat and belts. They stand in an honorary posture atop a red plinth, some with orifices in their hands, where spirit objects were placed to comfort or satisfy the deceased. The heads are detachable, as often seen on the larger figures from this period. They are accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, and Certificate of Expertise by Jean-Yves Nathan - a leading authority specialized in Far East Archaeology from the CEDEA (The European Confederation of Art Experts). Burial figurines of graceful dancers, mystical beasts, and everyday objects reveal both how people in early China approached death and how they lived. Since people viewed the afterlife as an extension of worldly life, these figurines, called mingqi, sometimes referred as “spirit utensils” or “vessels of ghosts” disclose details of routine existence and provide insights into belief systems over a thousand-year period. The Ming dynasty was the ruling dynasty of China – then known as the Empire of the Great Ming – for 276 years (1368–1644 AD). Founded by Chu Yuan-chang, the rebel leader that was successful in removing the mongols from the throne. Chinese control was re-asserted in China and eastern Asia. Literature became more important, schools were created, and the justice system was reformed. The Ming dynasty is described by some as "one of the greatest eras of orderly government and social stability in human history,” was the last imperial dynasty in China ruled by ethnic Han Chinese. The practice of burying ceramic objects with the deceased went into decline from the 10th to the 14th Century AD. There was a revival in placing miniature representations of glazed terracotta objects such a furniture, food offerings, horses, miniature statues...