Lot 90
East Asia, China, Han Dynasty, ca. 206 to 220 CE. A wonderful pottery votive pagoda of a tall, tiered form resembling a stupa tower set on a flattened base with a fence and roof-covered gate to represent the pagoda garden. The tapering, hexagonal building features a large door on one side and a series of arched windows that travel vertically up one side. Striations line the roof of the gate, delineating roof tiles, while the rest is of relatively minimalist design. All is enveloped in nice remains of a verdant green glaze. This miniature pagoda was part of funerary practice, and was made to be placed into a tomb as a representation of a real home. In conjunction with literary records, pagoda models like this provide valuable information about Chinese architecture from this early time period. So funerary edifices like this example, in addition to providing an understanding of early Chinese belief in an afterlife, also tell us much about the architecture and technology of the period. Size of pagoda on base: 9" L x 10.9" W x 14.5" H (22.9 cm x 27.7 cm x 36.8 cm)
Although no Han Dynasty domestic edifices have survived, ceramic models of houses that were deposited in Han tombs provide a greater window of understanding about Chinese residential architecture as well as construction techniques used during this period. Models such as this example were created to represent everything from humble pig pens to multi-level watch towers to the most luxurious palaces. They were placed in tombs of the deceased in order to provide for the departed soul - ensuring that his / her needs would be met in the afterlife. In addition to architectural models, sculptures of musicians, animals, dancing figures, horses, oil lamps, and other items of daily life were created for the funerary environment. While China's pottery-making tradition began well before the Han dynasty, it was during this period that the most sophisticated techniques arose allowing for extensive production of works for both utilitarian and ceremonial use.
Provenance: private Constance McCormick Fearing estate, Montecito, California, USA, acquired before 2004
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#180982
- Condition: Professionally repaired with restoration in some areas and break lines visible in others. Nicks, chips, and abrasions as shown, all commensurate with age. Nice remaining glaze and rich earthen deposits throughout.
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