Tang Dynasty Sancai Glazed Pottery Mandarin Duck

Tang Dynasty, 618–907 AD, China

This magnificent small-sized, molded pottery figure portrays a sleeping mandarin duck in a serene pose. Resting on a tubular base, the duck is shown with its head turned back, gently preening its tail, while its neatly tucked wings add to the harmonious composition.The figure is coated with a thick, lustrous amber glaze, a hallmark of Tang dynasty sancai pottery. The glaze stops unevenly near the lower portion of the body, revealing the natural buff-colored pottery beneath, enhancing its rustic charm and authenticity.

The depiction of ducks in Chinese art dates back at least to the Han dynasty, symbolizing grace, tranquility, and marital harmony. Mandarin ducks (yuanyang), in particular, are cherished in Chinese culture as emblems of love and fidelity. These motifs are celebrated in various art forms, including the embroidered textiles discovered in the renowned Dunhuang Caves from the Tang dynasty. A captivating piece, this figure exemplifies the Tang dynasty’s artistic brilliance and their deep appreciation for nature and symbolism. It serves as a testament to the sophisticated craftsmanship and cultural values of one of China’s most celebrated historical periods.

Good condition. Age-related wear, glazing flaws, fritting. Size approx. 6,2cm x 7,5cm x 4,1cm. 

Provenance: Swedish private collection

For a similar example see:

Figure, Victoria and Albert Museum, Accession Number: C.965-1922 (https://collections.vam.ac.uk/item/O180994/figure-unknown/)

References and further reading:

Gilded Dragons: Buried Treasures from China’s Golden Ages, The British Museum, ed. Carol Michaelson, 1999.

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)

Arts of the Tang Court, Patricia Eichenbaum Karetzky, Hong Kong; New York: Oxford University Press, 1996.

The Art of the Yellow Springs: Understanding Chinese Tombs, Wu Hung, London: Reaktion Books, 2011.