Han‑Dynasty Painted Pottery Rabbits (Pair)

拍品描述

Dimensions: Left image: Height 30 cm (approx. 11.81 inches, 0.98 ft), Width 20 cm (approx. 7.87 inches, 0.66 ft); Right image: Height 25 cm (approx. 9.84 inches, 0.82 ft), Length 35 cm (approx. 13.78 inches, 1.15 ft); Tang Dynasty, 7th-10th century. Condition and Provenance: This pair of painted rabbits is in excellent condition and overall integrity. Both rabbits retain their original sculptural form, natural burial surfaces, and some traces of red and black paint. Provenance: Private collection, California, USA; held in a private art collection for many years. Description: This pair of exquisite painted rabbits showcases the superb craftsmanship of Tang Dynasty funerary sculpture. These two rabbits, preserved as burial goods, are a pair, lifelike in posture, with one front paw raised, full of vitality. Their erect ears, rounded bodies, and meticulously sculpted paws reflect the Tang Dynasty's preference for realistic and vivid animal sculptures. One rabbit stands tall and proud, while the other faces forward, forming a harmonious pair of rabbits. Each rabbit retains vents on its back from the firing process, an important feature of ancient ceramics production that helped prevent cracking during firing. The surface of the pottery shows natural signs of age, formed by centuries of soil deposition and burial patina. Some traces of paint are still visible, such as the red pigment on the lips, nose, and paws, and the darker details around the eyes and body. The remaining colors have faded naturally, preserving their rustic charm. In ancient Chinese culture, rabbits symbolize good fortune, prosperity, and peace. As funerary figurines, these rabbits embody the Tang Dynasty tradition of accompanying the deceased with vivid animal imagery, praying for their well-being in the afterlife. Such well-preserved animal figurines are particularly valuable to collectors and museums studying Tang Dynasty sculpture, funerary customs, and ancient ceramic art.

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