About the item: This ceramic goose figure with bronze legs (mingqi) is an authentic ritual object from Ancient China, created as funerary inventory during the Han Dynasty. The sculpture depicts a waterfowl, which in the culture of that era symbolized domestic prosperity, abundance, and the continuity of life. It is not only a religious-ritual artifact but also a masterful example of Han period applied art, reflecting a high level of technological progress and the social status of the deceased.
Technical Information:
Object: Ceramic goose figure (mingqi)
Culture / Period: Han Dynasty, Ancient China (2nd–1st century BC)
Materials: Ceramics, bronze, remains of mineral pigments
Technique: Hand-forming, firing, separate bronze casting
Dimensions: 20 × 24 × 10 cm
Construction: Composite (ceramic body and integrated metal legs)
Condition: Well-preserved structure, natural oxidative patina, visible traces of ochre and black pigments.
Provenance: Private European collection; previously – old UK and European collections since 1970.
Artistic and Structural Analysis: The body of the sculpture exhibits the grace and anatomical precision characteristic of Han artistry. The long, expressively curved neck and balanced silhouette are formed using minimalist yet highly effective means. Remaining pigment traces on the surface indicate that the object was originally decorated in colors, a feature typical of higher-status mingqi. A standout feature is the separately cast bronze legs with wide, precisely crafted webbed feet. This composite construction provides the sculpture not only with visual stability but also significantly higher collectible value, as metal-and-ceramic combinations have survived far less frequently than purely ceramic pieces.
Cultural Context: The Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD) is considered the Golden Age of China. The belief that the afterlife was a continuation of earthly existence led to the tradition of equipping tombs with mingqi ("spiritual goods"). These figures were intended to provide the deceased with everything they possessed in life: servants, buildings, and livestock. Waterfowl were a direct allusion to agricultural success and material wealth. The use of bronze in such figures directly indicates the high rank of the deceased within the empire's social hierarchy.
Collectible and Museum Value:
Historical Value: An authentic Han period ritual object with documented provenance.
Collectible Appeal: The rare composite model (ceramics + bronze) and good preservation of pigmentation are key criteria that increase market demand.
Museum Potential: Suitable for thematic exhibitions on Asian art, archaeology, and religious rituals; meets the highest standards for museum display and identification.
Legal Status: Collectible object, legal trade within the EU territory.
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