This green-glazed terracotta duck would have
been interred in the tomb of a wealthy member
of the social elite. Known as ‘mingqi’, these
grave goods were extremely popular during the
Han era. The nobility were buried with splendidly
modeled replicas of all the people, animals and
possessions they would require in the afterlife.
These might range from wine vessels to
miniature farms or elegant courtiers and
musicians, intended to entertain their masters
for eternity. Sculpted warriors or tomb guardians
were also popular. This superbly crafted duck
was probably included as a source of food. The
modeling is extremely naturalistic and reflects
the religious beliefs held during the Han era. The
more realistic the grave goods, the more likely
they would perform their functions effectively in
the afterlife. The artist may well have worked
from a real-life model.
The pale green glaze is a distinctive feature of
Han era pottery which does not appear in later
ages. Over time the surface has acquired a
beautiful, soft iridescent patina. Commonly
referred to as “silver frost,” this iridescence is the
result of wet and dry periods in a tomb whereby
the clay dissolves the lead glaze and redeposits
it on the surface, where it hardens. A testament
of age, this patina is also admired by collectors
for its charming aesthetic qualities, similar in
effect to mother of pearl.
Historically the Han Dynasty was one of the most
illustrious in China’s past. It was divided into two
distinct periods, the Western Han (c. 206 BC-9
AD) and the Eastern Han (23-220 AD). Trade
flourished and the wealth and ideas that
accompanied the opening of new trade routes
led to the flourishing of the arts. Many written
works – especially poetry and plays – date to this
period, as well as paintings and cast bronze or
ceramic sculptures. This piece is a wonderful
example of the skill and creativity of Han artists
and would make a charming addition to any
serious collection of ancient art. (AM)
