Tang Dynasty Standing Court Lady In Painted Terracotta — Certificate Of Authenticity (qed)

Elegant funerary figure of a Tang Dynasty court lady (仕女俑), modelled in reddish-grey terracotta, coated with a white slip and painted in original polychromy. Authentic pigment remains are clearly visible: pink on the cheeks and lips, black outlining the eyes, green residues on the sleeves, and a dark band marking the waist.
The high coiffure, with frontal volume and a lateral volute above the right side, is characteristic of the second half of the 8th century. The crossed hands are hidden beneath long, pleated sleeves.
The surface shows a homogeneous burial patina with natural oxidation abrasions and minor ancient flaking, enhancing its authenticity. No lead glaze, confirming a true paint-on-slip technique. Excellent structural stability, with no modern restoration or reworking.
Authenticity confirmed by QED thermoluminescence test (ref. QED1211/FC-0204), attesting to an ancient firing consistent with the Tang period.

Technical characteristics

• Culture / Period: China, Tang Dynasty (618–907 A.D.), stylistically 8th century.

• Material / Technique: Modelled terracotta, white slip with red/green/black polychromy, no glaze; incised folds, visible brush traces.

• Dimensions: H. 30.3 cm × L. 11 cm × D. 8.3 cm.

• Condition: Good and coherent; consistent archaeological wear, minor losses to slip and pigments, light edge chipping at the base.

• Provenance: Former French private collection (Toulouse), acquired in the 1980s.

• Tests & Documentation: QED thermoluminescence report (ref. QED1211/FC-0204) included.

Historical context
During the Tang Dynasty, such female figures were placed in tombs as mingqi (“spirit goods”), meant to accompany and honor the deceased, ensuring their status and comfort in the afterlife. Reflecting the cosmopolitan refinement of Chang’an, the imperial capital, these court ladies embody Tang ideals of beauty — full faces, high-waisted robes, and elaborate coiffures — hallmarks of the dynasty’s aesthetic sophistication.

Formal and material analysis

• Posture: Standing lady with hands hidden inside long, puffed sleeves; long robe falling in softly incised folds, waist accentuated by a dark painted band.

• Head & Coiffure: Full oval face, pink cheeks, eyes lined in black; high hairstyle with a lateral scroll typical of the 8th century.

• Surface: Ancient white slip with fine crackling and micro-lifting; well-integrated green and red pigment remains within the patina.

• Base: Integral rectangular base with irregular contours and visible workshop tool marks — clear sign of original manufacture.

• Integrity: No visible restoration; natural archaeological patina consistent with long burial in a dry environment.

Cultural significance
A museum-quality example of Tang artistry, combining elegance of pose, readable polychromy, noble coiffure, and documented provenance. The certified QED thermoluminescence test ensures full scientific authenticity.
An exemplary piece for any collection of historical Chinese art.

Provenance & guarantees
Documented provenance; certificate of authenticity and QED report included.
Sale conducted within a recognized network of antiquarians, in accordance with the highest international standards of the Asian art market.