Tang Dynasty Terracotta Court Musician | Female Figure with Pan Flute & Traces of Pigment | 7th–9th Century
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: China
Material: Terracotta with traces of original pigment
Period: Tang Dynasty (circa 618–907 AD)
Description
This authentically aged Tang Dynasty terracotta figure depicts a seated female court musician playing a traditional Chinese pan flute. The figure is modeled in flowing robes, with visible traces of red and white mineral pigments, typical of Tang funerary art. Her serene face and intricately detailed hairstyle reflect the refined beauty standards of the Tang imperial court. Seated gracefully, she holds the multi-piped pan flute delicately to her lips—symbolizing the significance of music in Tang ritual, entertainment, and daily life. This sculpture most likely functioned as a mingqi, or tomb attendant figure, designed to provide companionship and cultural refinement to the deceased in the afterlife.
Features
- Rare depiction of a female musician with traces of original pigments
- Traditional Tang coiffure and draped robe details
- Pan flute rendered with fine sculptural precision
- Hollow-bodied construction consistent with Tang burial practices
- Displayed on a later-added carved wooden stand
Cultural Significance
Terracotta figures of musicians, dancers, and attendants were widely used during the Tang Dynasty as tomb furnishings, reflecting the wealth, sophistication, and artistic culture of the deceased. Music was central to Tang court life, and female performers held a celebrated role in both entertainment and ritual. This figure captures the elegance and cultural vibrancy of China’s golden age, offering valuable insight into its artistry and ceremonial traditions.
Condition
Good condition for its age, with surface wear, pigment loss, and mineral deposits consistent with burial context. Minor chipping along edges and extremities. Stable overall with no evidence of modern repairs. The custom wooden base is not original but enhances display.
Dimensions (approximate)
Height (including base): 6.25 in
Height (figure only): 4.25 in
Width: 4 in
Age
Estimated circa 7th–9th century AD (Tang Dynasty)
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: China
Material: Terracotta with traces of original pigment
Period: Tang Dynasty (circa 618–907 AD)
Description
This authentically aged Tang Dynasty terracotta figure depicts a seated female court musician playing a traditional Chinese pan flute. The figure is modeled in flowing robes, with visible traces of red and white mineral pigments, typical of Tang funerary art. Her serene face and intricately detailed hairstyle reflect the refined beauty standards of the Tang imperial court. Seated gracefully, she holds the multi-piped pan flute delicately to her lips—symbolizing the significance of music in Tang ritual, entertainment, and daily life. This sculpture most likely functioned as a mingqi, or tomb attendant figure, designed to provide companionship and cultural refinement to the deceased in the afterlife.
Features
- Rare depiction of a female musician with traces of original pigments
- Traditional Tang coiffure and draped robe details
- Pan flute rendered with fine sculptural precision
- Hollow-bodied construction consistent with Tang burial practices
- Displayed on a later-added carved wooden stand
Cultural Significance
Terracotta figures of musicians, dancers, and attendants were widely used during the Tang Dynasty as tomb furnishings, reflecting the wealth, sophistication, and artistic culture of the deceased. Music was central to Tang court life, and female performers held a celebrated role in both entertainment and ritual. This figure captures the elegance and cultural vibrancy of China’s golden age, offering valuable insight into its artistry and ceremonial traditions.
Condition
Good condition for its age, with surface wear, pigment loss, and mineral deposits consistent with burial context. Minor chipping along edges and extremities. Stable overall with no evidence of modern repairs. The custom wooden base is not original but enhances display.
Dimensions (approximate)
Height (including base): 6.25 in
Height (figure only): 4.25 in
Width: 4 in
Age
Estimated circa 7th–9th century AD (Tang Dynasty)
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