antique bronze statues and gilt bronzes chinese and Indian sculptures antique chinese porcelain examples Welcome   Our Collections Bronzes and Metalwork Exhibitions Early Ceramics Contact Enamels Furniture   Himalayan   Indian   Ivory and Raino Horn   Lacqoer   Porcelain   Sculpture   Southeast Asian   Works of Art EARTHENWARE STANDING GROOM Tang dynasty 7th century AD China The grey earthenware figure has been fired onto an oval base and stands with legs apart and head turned to the left, looking up slightly (as if to a horse). Both of his hands are held in front of his chest - with fists clenched as though holding reins. He wears pointed shoes and loose fitting trousers with a long sleeved terracotta red tunic covering his body - the pigment of which is in remarkable condition. This tunic descends below the knees at the back - but is raised and tucked into the black belt around his waist at the front, revealing the green lining and the knee length under tunic below. The facial features are those of an Eastern Asiatic with round face, chubby cheeks, small nose and slit eyes all painted in pink flesh tones, the expression half smiling and affectionate. The black hair is combed and centre parted - gathered into a bun on either side of his head above the ears. The figure is further secured to the base by means of two earthenware dowels (visible from below). Height: 19 1/8" / 48.5 cm Similar example: 'Oriental Sculpture & Works of Art' A & J Speelman 1999 - another earthenware standing groom, Tang dynasty, 7th century AD.