A Rare and Exquisite Painted Straw-Glazed Figure of A Warrior with Original Pigment Tang Dynasty, 7th Century, China H25.6×W7×D5 cm with a collector's box This Tang Dynasty warrior figure stands tall and resolute upon an oval base, embodying the grandeur and military prowess of one of China’s most cosmopolitan and powerful eras. The warrior is adorned in a helmeted cap, a short tunic over armor, and loose trousers that cascade over his sturdy boots. His hands are positioned as if gripping a weapon, reinforcing his role as a steadfast guardian in both life and the afterlife. The straw-glazed surface, a hallmark of Tang ceramic artistry, extends elegantly down to the knees, blending seamlessly with the remnants of original pigment that still cling to the lower folds of his costume. The figure’s hollow interior is a signature feature of Tang mortuary ceramics, ensuring both durability and lightness, while his face, sculpted with striking realism, exudes an air of stoic vigilance, reminiscent of Tang China's esteemed military class. During the Tang Dynasty, China reached unparalleled heights of cultural and artistic sophistication. Warrior figures such as this were frequently placed in tombs as protective guardians, reflecting the belief in an afterlife where the deceased required continued protection and status. The bold modeling and lifelike details of this piece echo the artistic advancements of the era, wherein sculptors, influenced by Silk Road interactions, embraced a more dynamic, international style. Similar warrior figures have been unearthed from the tombs of Tang nobility, their martial presence paralleling historical accounts of the Tang military elite, who safeguarded the empire’s frontiers against threats from the steppes and deserts. This figure’s poised stance, with feet planted firmly, gaze forward, evokes the spirit of these guardians—figures akin to the legendary generals depicted in Tang historical texts. Despite the passage of time, this warrior retains much of his commanding aura, a testament to the Tang artisans' mastery of form, glaze, and expression. In both artistic and symbolic terms, he stands not just as a funerary object, but as a reflection of a civilization that celebrated strength, resilience, and artistic grandeur. A similar example in the collection of the Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo, accession no. TG-1894 : https://colbase.nich.go.jp/collection_items/tnm/TG-1894?locale=ja Condition: Overall condition consistent with age and archaeological burial. The figure is structurally stable. Minor age-related surface wear and abrasion throughout. Areas of glaze thinning and surface flaking are present, particularly along the edges, folds of the garment, and high points. Traces of original pigment remain visible in recessed areas of the drapery and armor details. Expected chips and small losses to extremities and edges, including minor losses to the base rim. The underside shows old adhesive residue and reinforcement, likely from a previous stabilization or mounting. The interior is hollow as typical for Tang dynasty tomb figures. No obvious large-scale modern restoration observed beyond minor stabilization. Please examine all photographs carefully for full condition details. Shipping worldwide by EMS, usually 7-14 days to deliver. Authenticity Guarantee This item is accompanied by a signed Certificate of Authenticity. Catawiki disclaimer: This object has been dated based on style by the seller . No further tests, such as, a TL test, C14 test, lapidary tests, analysis of pigments or radiography scans have been conducted to check the integrity of the piece.