A Rare Pale Amber-Glazed Pottery Figure of a Court Lady China, Sui dynasty to early Tang dynasty, 6th–7th century Height: 20 cm Finely modelled standing in an elegant and restrained pose, the slender court lady is depicted with her hands gently clasped before the waist, dressed in a long, flowing robe falling in softly delineated vertical folds and opening slightly towards the base. A short outer garment is draped over the shoulders, its edges and sleeves carefully articulated. The elongated figure is surmounted by a delicately modelled head with serene, finely defined facial features, including gently arched brows, almond-shaped eyes, a straight nose and small pursed lips. Her hair is swept upwards into a distinctive high chignon, characteristic of the changing aristocratic fashions of the late 6th and early 7th centuries. The figure is covered overall in an attractive pale amber to straw-yellow lead glaze, now softly iridescent and extensively crackled with age. Areas of natural wear reveal the pale pottery body beneath, particularly around the lower robe and foot, lending the surface a beautifully time-softened appearance. Subtle variations within the glaze, together with traces of burial accretion and age-related surface alteration, enhance the sculptural modelling. The restrained proportions, high-waisted costume, elongated silhouette and formal coiffure are characteristic of female attendant figures produced during the transitional period between the Sui and early Tang dynasties. Such figures formed part of the sophisticated funerary assemblages created for members of the aristocracy and elite, intended to accompany and serve the deceased in the afterlife. Monochrome glazed court figures of this early date are considerably less frequently encountered than the later sancai-glazed pottery figures associated with the mature Tang dynasty, making surviving examples particularly appealing. Condition Very good condition considering the age. The figure remains intact, with no major breaks or losses. There are several old firing and age-related hairline cracks, including to the coiffure and reverse of the body, visible in the photographs. Expected extensive craquelure and areas of wear, flaking and loss to the glaze, particularly towards the base, together with surface abrasions and minor burial-related accretions. No significant restoration apparent from visual inspection. The overall state of preservation is remarkably attractive for a glazed pottery figure of this early period, retaining much of its original pale amber-yellow glaze and an especially elegant, complete silhouette. -Premium Authenticity Guarantee – Becker Antiques (Established 1966) This is a high-value artwork, selected with the utmost care by Becker Antiques, a gallery founded in 1966 and based in a historic five-storey mansion in Amsterdam’s Museum Quarter. Every premium piece we offer undergoes a rigorous authentication process based on nearly 60 years of specialist expertise. This includes: • Detailed stylistic and topological analysis • Assessment of condition, surface, and age-related characteristics • Comparative research with museum and literature examples We guarantee that this object is genuine, original, and exactly as described, with no modern, altered, or assembled elements unless clearly mentioned in the listing. Becker Antiques is trusted by museums, collectors, and institutions worldwide. Each premium item is chosen for its authenticity, historical integrity, and exceptional quality. For serious collectors or institutions wishing to receive additional documentation, we are always happy to assist. Shipping The figure will be professionally packed and dispatched within three working days, shipped by FedEx with full insurance.