Ancient Chinese, Han dynasty Ceramic standing figurine - 10 cm

03
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22
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Current bid
€ 70
Reserve price not met
Ruth Garrido Vila
Expert
Selected by Ruth Garrido Vila

Directed the Ifergan Collection Museum, specialising in Phoenician and Mediterranean archaeology.

Estimate  € 700 - € 850
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€70

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Ancient Chinese Han dynasty standing ceramic figurine, a small figure about 10 cm high and 2.5 cm wide, dating from circa 2nd century BC to 6th century AD, in poor condition with natural aging, original/authentic, acquired from China as a gift in 1989.

AI-assisted summary

Description from the seller

This piece is a standing figure, small in scale and archaic in character. The figure stands upright with both arms drawn in front of the chest; the shoulders and sleeves are modeled in simplified, block-like forms. The hem of the robe flares slightly outward, with restrained lines that convey an antique sensibility. Although the facial details have been softened by age, the contours of the features and the intended expression remain visible, giving the piece a quiet and refined presence. The surface shows natural earthen accretions and weathered wear; the clay body appears dry in texture, with an evident sense of age.

Date assessment (style-based): the modeling is deliberately summarized—emphasizing mass and overall form over fine detail—and the pose and drapery reflect characteristics commonly seen in early funerary mingqi. In overall style, it aligns more closely with small figure types associated with the Han through Six Dynasties period (Han to Wei–Jin and Northern & Southern Dynasties).

Condition as shown in the photos: natural signs of age are present, including earthen accretions, minor chips, and surface wear; some areas show weathering and small losses. Overall preservation is fair. Please refer to the actual photos for details.


Catawiki disclaimer: This object has been dated based on style by the seller . No further tests, such as, a TL test, lapidary tests, analysis of pigments or radiography scans have been conducted to check the integrity of the piece.

This piece is a standing figure, small in scale and archaic in character. The figure stands upright with both arms drawn in front of the chest; the shoulders and sleeves are modeled in simplified, block-like forms. The hem of the robe flares slightly outward, with restrained lines that convey an antique sensibility. Although the facial details have been softened by age, the contours of the features and the intended expression remain visible, giving the piece a quiet and refined presence. The surface shows natural earthen accretions and weathered wear; the clay body appears dry in texture, with an evident sense of age.

Date assessment (style-based): the modeling is deliberately summarized—emphasizing mass and overall form over fine detail—and the pose and drapery reflect characteristics commonly seen in early funerary mingqi. In overall style, it aligns more closely with small figure types associated with the Han through Six Dynasties period (Han to Wei–Jin and Northern & Southern Dynasties).

Condition as shown in the photos: natural signs of age are present, including earthen accretions, minor chips, and surface wear; some areas show weathering and small losses. Overall preservation is fair. Please refer to the actual photos for details.


Catawiki disclaimer: This object has been dated based on style by the seller . No further tests, such as, a TL test, lapidary tests, analysis of pigments or radiography scans have been conducted to check the integrity of the piece.

Details

Culture
Ancient Chinese, Han dynasty
Century/timeframe
circa 2nd century BC – 6th century AD
Name of object
standing figurine
Acquired from
Gifted
Year acquired
1989
Material
Ceramic
Country acquired from
China
Condition
Poor
Previous owner acquired from
Gifted
Height
10 cm
Previous owner - year acquired
1986
Width
2.5 cm
Previous owner - country acquired from
China
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Authenticity
Original/official
Hong KongVerified
187
Objects sold
100%
Private

Disclaimer

The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.

The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.

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