Mingqi. China, Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)

Mingqi. China, Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)
Figure of a funerary servant.
Glazed ceramic.
Measurements: 16 cm high.

Interesting funerary figure belonging to the set of the mingqi, objects intended to accompany the deceased in the tomb as a symbolic representation of their earthly environment. During the Ming dynasty the tradition, begun in earlier times, of including servants, officials and assistants to ensure the welfare of the deceased in the afterlife was maintained.

The figure represents a servant holding a tray of offerings. He wears a long tunic with glazes in green and ochre tones, characteristic of the glazed ceramics of funerary production. The modeling is simple but expressive, with serene facial features and frontal composition, typical of this type of pieces.

A small format work, intended for funerary trousseau, which exemplifies the ritual practices and the spiritual conception of imperial China during the Ming dynasty.