Figure of a lady, Tang dynasty, 618-906 CE. Excavated from the tomb of Xianyutinghui, Xiuan, Shaanxi Province, in 1957. Earthenware with blue three-color, sancai, glaze; height 44.5 cm. National Museum of Chinese History, Beijing

In the early Tang dynasty, figurines reflect the slender ideal form. In the middle Tang period the full-figured body and round-cheeked face became the fashion. This matronly woman with her delicate features wears a loose robe with low neckline and a loose jacket with wide sleeves. Her hair is gathered in a loose topknot.