Lot 250. A painted pottery figure of a soldier, Sui-early Tang dynasty, 6th-7th century; 20 in. (50.8 cm.) high. Estimate USD 10,000 - USD 15,000. Price realised USD 10,800. © Christie's Images Ltd 2007

Standing on a narrow platform, his right arm raised and both hands pierced and held in a fist, wearing a tiger skin hood with erect ears and intent gaze, the fangs framing his animated face, also wearing layered armor with epaulets at the shoulders, extensive pigment remaining, Japanese wood box.

Literature: Zui to no bijutsu, Osaka Municipal Museum of Art, 1976, p. 21, fig. 1-175. 

Note: The charming helmet worn by this soldier is made from the skin of a tiger, and possibly worn to intimidate opponents. Compare with a standing figure of a solider in similar attire illustrated in Zhongguo taoci quanji, vol. 7, Tang Sancai, Shanghai, 1983, no. 3.  

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics & Works of Art, New York, 22 March 2007