Ming Dynasty Glazed Pottery Tomb Attendant with Zodiac Animal

Ming Dynasty, c. 1550-1644, China.

An extraordinary glazed ceramic tomb figure from the Ming Dynasty, this piece represents a human tomb attendant holding a rabbit, one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac. The attendant is clad in a long, draping gown rendered in vivid cobalt blue, sky blue, and white hues, showcasing a rare and beautifully preserved hand-applied glaze and pigment. The figure's refined detailing and vibrant colors reflect the high-quality craftsmanship typical of tomb goods commissioned for the wealthy and elite during this period.

The Chinese zodiac—rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig—was deeply significant in Ming funerary traditions. These animals corresponded to the twelve earthly branches and symbolized the passage of time and cosmic order. The inclusion of zodiac animals in tombs was believed to ensure protection, guidance, and harmony for the deceased in the afterlife.

These figures, known as mingqi (spirit objects), were essential in ancestral burial practices. They were arranged in a north-south orientation within the tomb to symbolize the progression of time and to invoke the deities’ protection. The quality, style, and number of such figures were determined by the wealth and status of the family commissioning them, embodying the cultural emphasis on ancestor worship and filial piety.

Despite its centuries-long burial, this piece remains in good condition, retaining much of its original pigment. Some paint and slip losses reveal the underlying red clay, a testament to its age and authenticity. This remarkable figure not only showcases the artistic sophistication of the Ming Dynasty but also provides a window into the spiritual beliefs and practices of ancient China. A captivating artifact, it would make a superb addition to any collection of Chinese antiquities or cultural history.

Excellent condition. Intact. Mineral encrustation, soil and dust. Size approx. 19,3cm x 8,2cm x 6,6cm.

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)