Provenance: Acquired prior to 2005.

Note: Sensitively fashioned with a plump face, small heart-shaped lips and the head elegantly tilted to one side, pottery figures with such voluptuous features are attributed to the first half of the 8th century, and in particular to the reign of Emperor Xuanzong (r. 712-756). The plump features of these figures, their long voluminous robes and flamboyant hairstyles are believed to be representative of the aesthetic trend led by the famous imperial concubine Yang Guifei (719-756), beloved consort of the emperor. The figure’s distinctive hairstyle, known as ‘zhuimaji (falling off the horse bun)’, originated according to legend with the Emperor’s fascination with Yang Guifei’s appearance after she fell from a horse. Related Tang pottery ladies of this impressive size are rare. See an example of this size, modeled in a similar posture, from the collection of Frederick A. and Sharon L. Klingenstein, sold by Eskenazi Ltd., London, and later at Christie’s New York, 13th September 2019, lot 835; and another sold in the same rooms, 16th September 1999, lot 286. Compare also a smaller figure of this type, from a Japanese Private Collection, sold in these rooms, 11th September 2019, lot 523; and another from the Toguri Collection, first sold in our London rooms, 9th June 2004, lot 87, and later sold at Christie’s New York, 20th September 2013, lot 1255.

The dating of this lot is consistent with the results of Oxford Authentication Ltd. thermoluminescence test no. C105x16.

Sotheby's. Chinese Art, New York, 19 March 2024