Ming Dynasty Pottery Male Servant Figure Circa 14th-17th century AD This lovely pottery figure of a male servant stands atop an unglazed base. The figure is adorned in a long navy robe, gracefully crossed at the neck, featuring contrasting pale blue elements along the lower edge and the back. The robe extends just above the black boots. The figure wears a high hat with a brim, beneath which emerges black hair. The facial features present a pleasant appearance, characterized by narrow eyes with defined black arched eyebrows, a well-proportioned nose, and slightly pursed lips accentuated with red pigment. Mingqi, the funerary figures, were crafted to accompany the deceased into the afterlife. Mingqi represented various aspects of daily life, including servants, soldiers, musicians, and animals. These figures were believed to serve the departed in the afterworld, ensuring their continued comfort and well-being. The shapes of mingqi varied widely, reflecting the diversity of roles and activities present in the earthly realm. The inclusion of such figures in tombs aimed to reflect the deceased's familiar surroundings, emphasizing the importance of continuity and the preservation of earthly comforts beyond the mortal realm. Dimensions: 180mm x 60mm; weight 270g Provenance: Private UK Ancient Art Collection formerly acquired on the UK, European, and USA Art Markets from pre-2000 Collections. Disclaimer: NO SHIPPING OUTSIDE OF THE EUROPEAN UNION. All items will be shipped from Belgium. The seller guarantees and can prove that the object was obtained legally. The seller was informed by Catawiki that they had to provide the documentation required by the laws and regulations in their country of residence. The seller guarantees and is entitled to sell/export this object. The seller will provide all provenance information known about the object to the buyer. The seller ensures that any necessary permits are/will be arranged. The seller will inform the buyer immediately about any delays in obtaining such permits. The seller will not ship outside the EU.