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An important Ancient Chinese Ming dynasty ceramic composition showing four figures advancing forwards and carrying a throne, dating to approximately 1300 AD.
An extremely rare compositional work. The style of this piece surpasses the vast majority of known Ming dynasty sculptural ceramics. The group is shown in dynamic motion, in contrast to nearly all Ming, indeed Chinese, figural art which looks rigid and motion-less by comparison.
The effect of dynamism has been achieved by clever sculpting of the four figures, who each lean forward in different postures, their cloaks flowing backwards. The ancient artist has also employed a rather sketchy approach to detail on the figures, a technique which creates a blurred illusion of movement.
The individual figures all wear a thick cloak, conical hat and boots and are painted in black, white and flesh coloured pigments. The figure at the front-right is shown resting the pole from the suspended throne across both his shoulders. His left hand clutches the pole from above whilst his right stretches back against the throne. His right knee is flexed as he advances forwards. The figure at the front-left is shown hunched over, presumably strained by the weight of the pole, which he carries across his right shoulder, both of his hands clutching it from the side. The figure behind him looks forwards inquisitively with mouth open. The pole-bearer to the rear-right stands straight, his lower body and feet facing the throne and his upper body twisted forwards.
The throne itself consists of three walls, each with incised decoration to simulate windows and fabric curtains. The pyramidal roof with sphere at top. The front of the throne is shown open and contains a step, presumably for the king or queen to sit. The composition is mounted on an integral base.
Maximum Length: 9 inches.
Height: 9 3/4 inches.
Condition: Restored from several pieces, with minor additions to the ceramic.
References: For a processional group of Ming dynasty figures, including throne bearers, see Treasures from the Shanghai Museum - 6000 years of Chinese Art, R. Lefebvre d'Argence, 1983, p. 115.
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