Han Dynasty Painted Pottery Gaming Figures Set with Chess Table and Playing Pieces (Complete Set)

拍品描述

Dimensions: Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE); Figure height: 35 cm (13.8 in, 0.46 ft); Chess table length: 31 cm (12.2 in, 1.02 ft)，Condition & Provenance: Overall well preserved. The original painted decoration shows natural losses, with authentic surface aging, mineral deposits, weathering marks, and an old patina developed over centuries. The complete group, including the two figures, chess table, and pottery pieces, remains intact. Provenance: Private Collection, California, USA.Description: This rare Han Dynasty painted pottery gaming set includes two kneeling figures engaged in a board game, a pottery chess table, and multiple pottery playing pieces. Complete sets of this type are exceptionally uncommon and provide a vivid representation of recreational life and elite entertainment during the Han Dynasty. Both figures are shown seated in a kneeling posture, with carefully modeled hairstyles gathered into high topknots and expressive facial features enhanced with painted details. They wear wide-sleeved robes decorated with vertical stripes in white, blue-gray, and black pigments, with dark painted outlines defining the garment edges. The natural fading and losses of the original pigments reveal the authentic age and character of the piece. One figure raises a hand as if discussing strategy, while the other holds a playing piece in the act of making a move, creating a strong sense of interaction and movement. The figures retain the characteristic hollow openings on the underside, reflecting traditional Han Dynasty pottery-making techniques. The accompanying pottery game table features a carved board pattern with traces of original red painted lines, supported by a classic pierced apron-style base. Several square pottery playing pieces remain with the set, some placed on the board and others scattered nearby, recreating an ancient gaming scene. With its realistic modeling, complete composition, and naturally aged painted surface, this Han Dynasty pottery group offers outstanding historical significance, artistic value, and research importance as a rare depiction of ancient Chinese social life.

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