Ancient Chinese, Tang Dynasty Terracotta Mounted Warrior Conducting a Military Orchestra. With TL Test. - 34 cm
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Selected by Ruth Garrido Vila
Directed the Ifergan Collection Museum, specialising in Phoenician and Mediterranean archaeology.
Estimate € 4,100 - € 5,000
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Tang Dynasty Ancient Chinese terracotta sculpture of a mounted warrior conducting a military orchestra; height 34 cm, width 24 cm, in very good condition with traces of original red and black pigment.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
China, Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD)
Dimensions: Height: 34 cm | Width: 24 cm
An Exceptionally Rare Sculptural Portrait from Ancient China
This finely modeled terracotta sculpture depicts a Tang Dynasty warrior mounted on horseback, engaged in the rare and symbolic act of conducting a military orchestra. With one hand raised in a gesture of command, the figure exudes authority and ceremony. The horse, rendered with gentle curvature and dignity, stands poised beneath its rider, grounding the piece with calm strength.
Subtle yet distinct traces of original red and black pigment remain, offering a direct visual link to the vibrant pageantry of the 7th–9th century Tang imperial court. Such dynamic military-musical figures are exceedingly scarce, reflecting the dynasty’s deep investment in ritual, culture, and statecraft.
Authenticity & Scientific Verification
Thermoluminescence (TL) Testing & Pre-dose Analysis confirm the sculpture’s authenticity, with firing dates consistent with Tang period methods.
No evidence of modern restoration or artificial surface treatments.
Provenance
Ex-Danny Ma Collection, a known figure in Oriental ceramics (UK, pre-2002)
Acquired in 2002 by Mr. Matthew P., London, and part of a distinguished private collection since
Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity from Becker Antiques (Amsterdam), trusted experts in Chinese antiquities since 1969
Logistics & Presentation
Securely packed in a custom wooden crate, handled by professionals
Fully insured worldwide shipping via FedEx, dispatched within 3 working days
Additional high-resolution images or video available on request
This exceptional figure not only embodies the artistic brilliance of the Tang era but also offers a compelling narrative of military ceremony and cultural sophistication. A rare and meaningful addition to any collection of early Chinese art or museum-quality antiquities.
Condition Report
This Tang Dynasty terracotta figure is in very good condition considering its age of over 1,100 years. Key observations include:
Structural Integrity:
The figure remains intact and free from repairs or reconstruction, with no visible breaks or restorations to either the horse or rider. The base is solid and stable.
Surface & Pigment:
Traces of the original polychrome pigments—notably red and black—are well preserved, especially on the rider's garments and the saddle area. These remnants offer rare insight into the sculpture’s original appearance.
The surface has developed a natural patina, consistent with long-term burial and age. No signs of modern overpainting or artificial enhancement.
Aging & Wear:
Expected minor surface abrasion, weathering, and small areas of flaking are present, all typical of genuine Tang dynasty earthenware. These features are consistent with authentic aging and do not detract from the figure’s visual or historical value.
Testing:
The piece has undergone TL testing and Pre-dose analysis, confirming its authenticity and absence of modern firing or treatment.
This is a museum-quality example, offered in a stable and display-ready state, with excellent preservation of its form, detail, and historical character.
Seller's Story
Becker Antiques is one of the most respected and established antique dealers in the Netherlands. Known for excellence in both fine antiques and personalized service, Becker Antiques has earned an international reputation for quality and expertise.
Founded in 1966 by Jan Simon Becker, the gallery is located in Amsterdam’s prestigious Museum Quarter (Oud-Zuid), just minutes from the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the renowned Royal Concert Hall, “Koninklijk Concertgebouw.” Housed in a stunning five-storey mansion built in 1891, Becker Antiques offers a truly memorable setting for discovering art and history.
Our primary specialty lies in ceramics—especially pottery tomb figures from the Han to Ming Dynasties—along with Buddhist sculptures and rare Chinese artworks. We also offer a curated selection of Asian art from Japan and Southeast Asia, including bronze, stone, and wooden sculptures, as well as Qing Dynasty Chinese furniture and other unique finds.
For over 59 years, we have proudly served museums, private collectors, and dealers worldwide, offering not only antiques of the highest caliber but also the knowledge and passion that bring them to life.
China, Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD)
Dimensions: Height: 34 cm | Width: 24 cm
An Exceptionally Rare Sculptural Portrait from Ancient China
This finely modeled terracotta sculpture depicts a Tang Dynasty warrior mounted on horseback, engaged in the rare and symbolic act of conducting a military orchestra. With one hand raised in a gesture of command, the figure exudes authority and ceremony. The horse, rendered with gentle curvature and dignity, stands poised beneath its rider, grounding the piece with calm strength.
Subtle yet distinct traces of original red and black pigment remain, offering a direct visual link to the vibrant pageantry of the 7th–9th century Tang imperial court. Such dynamic military-musical figures are exceedingly scarce, reflecting the dynasty’s deep investment in ritual, culture, and statecraft.
Authenticity & Scientific Verification
Thermoluminescence (TL) Testing & Pre-dose Analysis confirm the sculpture’s authenticity, with firing dates consistent with Tang period methods.
No evidence of modern restoration or artificial surface treatments.
Provenance
Ex-Danny Ma Collection, a known figure in Oriental ceramics (UK, pre-2002)
Acquired in 2002 by Mr. Matthew P., London, and part of a distinguished private collection since
Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity from Becker Antiques (Amsterdam), trusted experts in Chinese antiquities since 1969
Logistics & Presentation
Securely packed in a custom wooden crate, handled by professionals
Fully insured worldwide shipping via FedEx, dispatched within 3 working days
Additional high-resolution images or video available on request
This exceptional figure not only embodies the artistic brilliance of the Tang era but also offers a compelling narrative of military ceremony and cultural sophistication. A rare and meaningful addition to any collection of early Chinese art or museum-quality antiquities.
Condition Report
This Tang Dynasty terracotta figure is in very good condition considering its age of over 1,100 years. Key observations include:
Structural Integrity:
The figure remains intact and free from repairs or reconstruction, with no visible breaks or restorations to either the horse or rider. The base is solid and stable.
Surface & Pigment:
Traces of the original polychrome pigments—notably red and black—are well preserved, especially on the rider's garments and the saddle area. These remnants offer rare insight into the sculpture’s original appearance.
The surface has developed a natural patina, consistent with long-term burial and age. No signs of modern overpainting or artificial enhancement.
Aging & Wear:
Expected minor surface abrasion, weathering, and small areas of flaking are present, all typical of genuine Tang dynasty earthenware. These features are consistent with authentic aging and do not detract from the figure’s visual or historical value.
Testing:
The piece has undergone TL testing and Pre-dose analysis, confirming its authenticity and absence of modern firing or treatment.
This is a museum-quality example, offered in a stable and display-ready state, with excellent preservation of its form, detail, and historical character.
Seller's Story
Becker Antiques is one of the most respected and established antique dealers in the Netherlands. Known for excellence in both fine antiques and personalized service, Becker Antiques has earned an international reputation for quality and expertise.
Founded in 1966 by Jan Simon Becker, the gallery is located in Amsterdam’s prestigious Museum Quarter (Oud-Zuid), just minutes from the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the renowned Royal Concert Hall, “Koninklijk Concertgebouw.” Housed in a stunning five-storey mansion built in 1891, Becker Antiques offers a truly memorable setting for discovering art and history.
Our primary specialty lies in ceramics—especially pottery tomb figures from the Han to Ming Dynasties—along with Buddhist sculptures and rare Chinese artworks. We also offer a curated selection of Asian art from Japan and Southeast Asia, including bronze, stone, and wooden sculptures, as well as Qing Dynasty Chinese furniture and other unique finds.
For over 59 years, we have proudly served museums, private collectors, and dealers worldwide, offering not only antiques of the highest caliber but also the knowledge and passion that bring them to life.
Details
Culture
Ancient Chinese, Tang Dynasty
Century/ Timeframe
Tang dynasty (618 - 907 A.D. )
Name of object
Mounted Warrior Conducting a Military Orchestra. With TL Test.
Acquired from
Private collection
Year acquired
2025
Material
Terracotta
Country acquired from
United Kingdom
Condition
Very good
Previous owner acquired from
Private collection
Height
34 cm
Previous owner - year acquired
2001
Width
24 cm
Previous owner - country acquired from
United Kingdom
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Sold by
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.
