A finely modelled Chinese, Song Dynasty, earthenware tile fragment, featuring the image of a stylised dwarf, rendered in high-relief. The figure is depicted crouched, with their left leg straight and leaning on their folded right leg. The figure is rounded, with a large circular stomach and face. Their arms are by their side, resting on their legs. A cloth has been draped diagonally from the right shoulder of the figure. The round face of the dwarf is slightly tilted and retains some of its original red pigment. The eyes, bulbous nose, heavy cheeks, and lips of their face are still clearly visible, with the head surmounted by black hair. The tile retains some of the original black and red pigment to the surface. The reverse is undecorated, and features a rough, textured surface. Earthly encrustations to the surface and signs of wear as consistent with age, such as chips, scratches, and pitting to the surface. Please note, Heavy Shipping applies to this lot. The Song Dynasty ruled China during one of its most brilliant and sophisticated cultural epochs, marking a high point for innovation in economy, science, engineering, and warfare. The Dynasty saw the introduction of the first banknotes and the first recorded chemical formula for gunpowder, as well as large-scale experimental architecture and a new intellectual interest in the arts. During this period, Buddhism waned in popularity as new philosophical schools of thought were introduced. The development of Neo-Confucianism and the re-emergence of Daoism reverberated through society, guiding it to ideals of balance and order. Buddhism, however, retained a strong influence over the arts, and many representation of Buddhist iconography can be found in the Song Dynasty extensive artistic production. Measurements: (circa) L 20cm x W 14cm Provenance: Ex West Country collection, UK.