Lot 591. A pair of sancai-glazed pottery earth spirits, zhenmushou, Tang dynasty (618-907). The taller 34in (86.36cm) high (2). Estimate US$ 15,000 - 25,000 (€ 13,000 - 22,000). Unsold. © Bonhams 2001-2019

Each modeled seated on a pierced base, with cloven hooves and open wings rising from the front of the shoulders, the sides of the body covered in an amber glaze, the underbelly and legs with an ivory glaze, the remainder splashed with ivory, amber and green; one with a human face, the bulging eyes, broad nose and full lips framed by the elephant-like ears and a flame rising from a horn growing from the top of the unglazed head, the other with a fierce beast's head, surmounted by two deer-like antlers flanking a flame, the mouth with fin-like protrusions at the sides, open to reveal sharp fangs.. 

Provenance: Collection of Ruth and Richard Dickes 
Acquired in New York City, 22 July 1997.

Note: The dating of this lot is consistent with the results of an Oxford Authentication Ltd Thermoluminescence test, sample no. C97f42, 8 August 1997.

Bonhams. Chinese works of art, New York, 18 March 2019, 10:00 EDT