Lot Essay
The results of the Oxford Authentication Ltd thermoluminescence tests, nos. C198c42 and C198c43 were consistent with the dating of this lot.
Large mastiffs, such as the present example, have been found buried with the dead in tombs in Sichuan province. They are generally modelled in alert positions, either seated or standing upright. For related examples see Akiyama Terukazu et al., Arts of China: Neolithic Cultures to the Tang Dynasty - Recent Discoveries, Tokyo, 1968, nos. 304-307; Kaogu xuebao 1958:1, pp.87-104, pl.IX; and Kaogu 1988:3, p.223, fig.6:7.
Compare, also, the massive Sichuan grey pottery figures sold in our New York Rooms, 4 June 1992, lot 206; and 19 September 1996, lot 232.
Large mastiffs, such as the present example, have been found buried with the dead in tombs in Sichuan province. They are generally modelled in alert positions, either seated or standing upright. For related examples see Akiyama Terukazu et al., Arts of China: Neolithic Cultures to the Tang Dynasty - Recent Discoveries, Tokyo, 1968, nos. 304-307; Kaogu xuebao 1958:1, pp.87-104, pl.IX; and Kaogu 1988:3, p.223, fig.6:7.
Compare, also, the massive Sichuan grey pottery figures sold in our New York Rooms, 4 June 1992, lot 206; and 19 September 1996, lot 232.