Chinese Han Dynasty, ca. 1st–2nd Century AD Material: Terracotta Size: Approx. 12 cm in length Description A Chinese Han Dynasty terracotta figure of a reclining ram, dating to approximately the 1st–2nd century AD. The figure is modeled in a compact and substantial form, displaying the characteristic simplicity and sculptural vitality of early Chinese animal pottery. Subject & Form: The ram is depicted in a reclining position with its legs tucked beneath the body. The head is raised and turned slightly to one side, with prominently modeled curved horns extending backward. The facial features, ears and muzzle are rendered in a restrained yet expressive manner. The broad body and rounded haunches emphasize the animal's substantial physical presence. Material & Surface: The figure is made of terracotta with a predominantly greyish-brown to earthen-toned surface. The surface displays areas of natural weathering, soil encrustation, firing marks, abrasion, pores and minor losses consistent with an aged ceramic object. Artistic Characteristics: Animal-shaped pottery was widely produced in ancient China and was frequently associated with funerary contexts. This reclining ram demonstrates the characteristic emphasis on simplified form, volume and naturalistic animal posture found in early Chinese ceramic sculpture. Catawiki disclaimer: This object has been dated based on style by the seller . No further tests, such as, a TL test, analysis of pigments or radiography scans have been conducted to check the integrity of the piece.