A Pair of Painted Pottery Swans Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD) Height: ca. 17 cm | Width: ca. 18 cm Each bird is modeled in a naturalistic stance, with raised necks and slightly open beaks suggesting alertness and vitality. Traces of original pigment remain over a white slip, the surfaces now softly aged and patinated after centuries of burial. The birds rest on later-added bronze feet, replacements made for stability and presentation; the original legs were long since lost in the tomb context. Avian figures of this type are well-documented among Han dynasty mingqi (tomb furnishings), intended to accompany the deceased and provide companionship and auspicious symbolism in the afterlife. Comparable examples include pottery geese excavated from Han tombs in Shaanxi province, now in the Shaanxi History Museum. This pair stands out for its exceptional quality and rare preservation of original pigments. Genuine examples of such quality are extremely rare on today’s market — we are proud to offer this authentic pair, as virtually all other “similar” examples seen in circulation are later assemblages or reconstructions rather than original Han works. Provenance: Private collection Hong Kong, before 2002 UK art market, between 2002 and 2025 Dutch private collection. Certificate of Authenticity: This item will be accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity from Becker Antiques, specialists in Chinese pottery since 1969, Amsterdam. Condition Report: Very good condition, with wear consistent with age. The bronze legs are modern replacements, made to replace those lost in the tomb and to allow stable display. Some loss of pigment due to natural aging. As with all ancient Chinese pottery, these figures were originally buried in tombs and later excavated; minor restorations may be present. Shipping Information: Professionally packed and shipped in a wooden crate within 3 working days via UPS. Fully insured worldwide shipping.