Well modelled pottery figure of a court lady, standing upright with both hands cradling a small pot, the elegant lady is portrayed standing in the classical stance for offerants, wearing the traditional court attire, known as ruqun, whilst holding an offering object with both hands. Her face is detailed with almond shaped eyes, a small mouth forming a gentle smile, and full cheeks, her parted hair is arranged in an elaborate tall coiffure, covered overall in a straw glaze with a greenish tint ending abruptly above the base.
Sui Dynasty: Circa 581-618 AD.
Condition: Good condition, commensurate with age. A few chips, tiny nicks, and light scratches, minor repairs and touch-ups.
Height 27.3 cms (10.7 ins)
Provenance: Acquired in China in the 1920s-1930s by a relative of the former owner. PD Collection Paris, acquired in the French trade.
The Sui Dynasty was a short-lived dynasty, whose attempts to reunify and rebuild China laid the foundation for the Tang Dynasty 'golden age'.
For a timeline of China's historical periods, see Columbia University webpage for educators.