Terracotta Bactrian Camel, China, Tang Dynasty (618-907). Photo courtesy Vanderven Oriental Art.

Height: 97 cm. TL-tested by Oxford Authentication Ltd. Price on request

In addition to the enormous cargo - up to 250 kilograms while travelling 30 to 40 kilometers per day - each camel also carried food and drink for the accompanying travelers. The camel is also adept at locating water sources and avoiding sand storms in the desert. It is no wonder that these beasts of burden were held in the highest regard by their riders from Sogdia. To the Chinese, camels were regarded as symbols of humility, because it kneels to be loaded.

Vanderven Oriental Art. MasterArt at TEFAF 2014 on stand 814. 14-23 march 2014 - http://www.masterart.com/