Ming Dynasty Glazed Pottery Processional Figures

Ming Dynasty, c. 1500–1550 AD, China

Magnificent pair of hollow-molded glazed pottery processional figures from the Ming Dynasty, beautifully exemplifying the refined funerary art of imperial China. Each figure stands upright on a square base with legs slightly apart, dressed in traditional Ming court attire: a long black cross-over robe tied at the waist, accented with turquoise-glazed side panels and voluminous sleeves, finished with heavy black boots. Both wear distinctive red conical hats with wide brims, lending strong visual presence and individuality.

The figures hold offerings in their hands, likely symbolizing service, tribute, or trade, and suggesting their role as attendants within a ceremonial procession. Their faces are sensitively modeled, with almond-shaped eyes beneath arched brows, softly blushed cheeks, defined lips, and carefully shaped ears, conveying calm dignity and reverence.

Such figures are known as mingqi (“spirit objects”), created specifically for burial to accompany the deceased into the afterlife. Rather than mere decoration, mingqi formed symbolic entourages that mirrored earthly life, providing service, protection, and status in the spiritual realm. During the Ming Dynasty, tombs often contained carefully arranged groups of officials, servants, guards, animals, and attendants, reflecting a belief in an afterlife that closely paralleled the world of the living.

By the mid-16th century, funerary assemblages became more restrained yet increasingly refined, as seen in this elegant and well-balanced pair. A museum-quality example of Ming ceramic sculpture, offering exceptional presence and historical depth—an outstanding addition to any serious collection of Chinese antiquities or funerary art.

Good condition. Finely preserved glaze and pigment. Intact. Minimal glazing flaws and fritting, with uncleaned deposits of dirt. Size approx. 18,0cm x 6,3cm x 5,5cm and 18,0cm x 5,5cm x 4,9cm. Sell as a pair.

Provenance: Swedish private collection.

References and further reading:

The Matter of Tang Tomb Figures; A New Perspective on a Group of Terracotta Animals and Riders, Lucien Van Valen & Isabelle Garachon, The Rijksmuseum Bulletin, Volume 62. pp. 218-239, 2014.

Dream of Ideal Life in Ancient China: Ceramic Miniatures of Architectures, Household Goods, People and Animals, Aichi.ken Toji Shiryokan, Seto, 2005, no. 14, p. 34.

Antecedents of Sui-Tang Burial Practices in Shaanxi, Mary Fong, Artibus Asiae 51, no:s. 3–4 (1991), pp. 147–98.

Mingqi - Items for the next world, Jan-Erik Nilsson, Gotheborg.com (https://gotheborg.com/glossary/mingqi.shtml)

Immortality of the Spirit: Chinese Funerary Art from the Han and Tang Dynasties Exhibition Catalogue, Jill J. Deupi, Ive Covaci & Leopold Swergold, Immortality of the Spirit - Ephemera. 1, Fairfield University, 2012. (https://digitalcommons.fairfield.edu/immortality_ephemera/1)

The Vibrant Role of Mingqi in Early Chinese Burials, Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History, Heather Colburn Clydesdale, Independent Scholar, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, April 2009. (www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/mgqi/hd_mgqi.htm)