Collection Of Seven Chinese Polychrome Sculptures, Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)

A fine collection of highly decorative Chinese blue-glazed pottery musician statues from the Ming Dynasty.

These figures were traditionally part of a funeral procession and were believed to herald the deceased's arrival in the afterlife. These terracotta figurines were intended as funerary objects. It was believed that they would serve and assist the deceased in the afterlife. Figurines of this type are called mingqi in Chinese and often depict servants, soldiers, musicians, dancers, and various animals. As in real life, servants were expected to remain close to their master, waiting to fulfill the wishes and needs of the deceased. Particularly recognizable are two musicians with small cymbals (Xiaobo) and two flute players. In addition, we also see a musician playing a flat majiang drum. These figurines are made of simple pottery and have a porous shard that has been largely painted cobalt blue before a glaze is applied and fired at a high temperature.Condition: These statues are in good condition with signs of normal wear. One of the musicians shows signs of restoration on the neck.