A Fine Sancai-Glazed Earthenware Figure of a Standing Official China, Tang Dynasty (618–907) Object will be delivered with TL Test A finely modeled sancai-glazed earthenware figure depicting a standing court official, rendered with quiet dignity and restrained authority. The figure stands upright with hands respectfully clasped before the chest, wearing long flowing robes covered in a rich amber glaze that falls in naturalistic folds over a vivid green undergarment. The face, left in a pale buff tone, is sensitively modeled with full cheeks, gently arched brows, and a composed expression, conveying the refined elegance characteristic of Tang dynasty figural sculpture. The official wears a tall headdress, its form clearly defining rank and status within the bureaucratic hierarchy of the Tang court. The sancai (“three-colour”) glaze—combining amber, cream, and green—has pooled attractively in the recesses, creating a lively surface with subtle variations and an appealing sense of movement. Areas of burial encrustation and weathering remain, contributing to the authenticity and archaeological character of the piece. The figure is hollow-molded in sections, typical of Tang funerary ceramics, and stands on an integral base. Such figures were produced for elite tombs as part of mingqi (spirit goods), intended to serve the deceased in the afterlife and to reflect the sophistication and cosmopolitan culture of the Tang empire. Height: 44 cm Comparative reference: Cf. He Li, Chinese Ceramics. The New Standard Guide, no. 180, for a closely related example of a sancai-glazed standing official. Compare also a larger pair of sancai-glazed standing officials, with similarly clasped hands, sold at Christie's, London, measuring 69 cm in height and for GBP 8,050. Condition: The figure is in overall good and stable condition consistent with its age and burial history. It is hollow-molded and structurally sound. There is general surface wear throughout, including areas of glaze loss and flaking, particularly to the extremities and raised surfaces. The sancai glaze remains well preserved overall, with attractive pooling and good color contrast. The head and facial area show expected weathering, with minor abrasions and losses to the surface. There are visible burial accretions and encrustations across the body, especially in recessed areas, which enhance the archaeological character of the piece. There are minor firing imperfections and age-related cracks typical of Tang earthenware figures. No major restorations are immediately apparent under normal inspection. -Premium Authenticity Guarantee – Becker Antiques (Established 1966) This is a high-value artwork, selected with the utmost care by Becker Antiques, a gallery founded in 1966 and based in a historic five-storey mansion in Amsterdam’s Museum Quarter. Every premium piece we offer undergoes a rigorous authentication process based on nearly 60 years of specialist expertise. This includes: • Detailed stylistic and typological analysis • Assessment of condition, surface, and age-related characteristics • Comparative research with museum and literature examples We guarantee that this object is genuine, original, and exactly as described, with no modern, altered, or assembled elements unless clearly mentioned in the listing. Becker Antiques is trusted by museums, collectors, and institutions worldwide. Each premium item is chosen for its authenticity, historical integrity, and exceptional quality. For serious collectors or institutions wishing to receive additional documentation, we are always happy to assist. Shipping The figure will be professionally packed and dispatched in a custom wooden crate within three working days, shipped by FedEx with full insurance.