Lot Essay
Pottery tomb figures, many of large size, were buried with the dead in cave-like tombs cut into stone cliffs in Sichuan province in the Han dynasty and into the Six Dynasties period. Large mastiff dogs, such as the present example, as well as massive ones (as tall as 29 in. high) have been found in these tombs. They are generally depicted in alert postures, either seated or standing upright.
The result of Oxford thermoluminescence test no. C97n34 is consistent with the dating of this lot.
The result of Oxford thermoluminescence test no. C97n34 is consistent with the dating of this lot.