Han Dynasty Pottery Footsoldier 

Western Han Dynasty, c. 206 BC – 220 AD, Shaanxi Province, China

This impressive pottery model of a footsoldier is crafted from underlying grey pottery, with much of its original painted pigments still intact. The soldier is dressed in plate armor worn over a thigh-length tunic and shortened white trousers, with black high boots protecting his feet. His padded garments, especially the thick collars and sleeves, provided additional defense against arrows and melee weapons.

His stern expression is meticulously detailed, featuring thin eyebrows, slender eyes, a broad nose, a neatly sculpted mustache, and firmly closed lips. He wears a hooded cap, securing his tightly styled hair bun, a common feature of Han military personnel. His clenched hands contain central holes, which originally held miniature bronze weapons such as spears or swords. His tunic is further adorned with colorful green and red ribbons, possibly indicating rank or status within the military hierarchy.

During the Han Dynasty, figures like this replaced human sacrifices, serving instead as burial goods (mingqi) for wealthy and influential individuals. These funerary objects were believed to accompany the deceased into the afterlife, ensuring protection and prestige. Large-scale pottery armies, such as those excavated at the Yangjiawan site in northeastern Xianyang, Shaanxi province, closely resemble this figure and date to 179–141 BC, offering a rare glimpse into Han-era military traditions.

This remarkable warrior is not just a testament to Han craftsmanship but also a historical record of military attire and burial customs in one of China's most influential dynastic periods.

Excellent condition. Intact. Surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age, minimal nicks and chip, and some paint loss. Rich encrusted patina and earthen deposits throughout. Size approx. 26,0cm x 8,3cm x 8,8cm.

Provenance: British private collection.

For a similar examples see: 

Soldier (Tomb Figure), Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, Cornell University, Accession Number: 2000.045.001 (https://emuseum.cornell.edu/objects/36569/soldier-tomb-figure)

Figurine of retinue-warrior, Asian Civilisations Museum, Accession Number: 1996-01495 (https://www.roots.gov.sg/Collection-Landing/listing/1110948)