Lot 142. A pair of painted pottery figures of earth spirits, Zhenmu Shou, Tang dynasty; 23 1/2in (59.6cm) high. Estimate US$ 5,000 - 7,000 (€ 4,300 - 6,000). Unsold. © Bonhams 2001-2018

Each supported on a rockery base, one figure with a round bearded human face with fierce expression beneath spiraled hair dressed in a point fronted by a single horn flanked by large ears, the broad chest painted with floral patterns, seated on its haunches, the limbs ending in hooves; the other figure with a menacing beast-like face beneath a pair of antlers and large ears flanking a single horn and flaming mane, the shoulders painted with leopard spots, the right paw raised, the left clutching the head of a serpent, seated with one leg outstretched, each paw with three claws.

Provenance: A Private New York Collection
Dragon Treasures Antique Ltd., 2005

Note:  the result of Oxford authentication Ltd. thermoluminescence test sample no. C106g10 is consistent with the dating of the second figure in this lot.

A similar pair of figures is illustrated in The Silk Road - Treasures of Tang China, Singapore, 1991, p. 93, and a related pair was sold at Christie's, New York, 24 March 2004, lot 135.