A figure of an official

Ming dynasty, 15th century
China

carbon 14 test result no. rcd-6263 confirms the date

carbon test sample RCD 6266 confirms this dating

height: 23.2 cm

Facing forward, with a serene expression, the official is dressed in a long robe and apron – the latter decorated with a design of lotus flowers, clouds and waves – fastened at the waist by a belt; three strings of pearls hang down at each side. He holds a hu (a Court tablet of ivory carried by officials while actually in the presence of the Emperor) in both hands, at chest level. His seven bar official’s hat is tied under the chin and indicates his rank (the larger the number of ridges, the higher the rank – the maximum being eight); the hat is decorated at the back with the same design as the apron, and at the front with panels of auspicious symbols. Drill holes to the upper lip and chin remain where real hair would originally have been attached to give the figure a moustache and partial beard. The patina of the solid ivory is rich, stained and darkened on purpose in certain areas (including the belt and borders of the robe), of a more mellow tone in others, and with certain highlights a light cream colour.