Ca. 960–1279 AD. Song dynasty. A beautiful tile that may have been part of the decoration of an aristocratic tomb with three male attendants in high relief. The male attendant on the right-hand side wears a long red robe and a conical hat; the attendant at the centre wears a short tunic over red pantaloons and a soft cap; the attendant on the left wears the same attire but he also has a red belt tied at its waist and his hands are joined and held up to his chest. The faces bear traces of pink colour and capture a serene expression. The back of this tile has an impression of a handprint, which may have served as the signature of the artisan who made it. For the diversity and richness of its cultural achievements, the Song dynasty, which ruled most of China between 960 and 1279 AD, is remembered as one of China’s greatest. For more information on the Song dynasty, see Kuhn, D. (1987). The Song Dynasty, 960 to 1279: A new society reflected in its culture. Acta Humaniora, Weinheim. Provenance: From the private collection of a Somerset gentleman; previously in an old British collection, formed before 2000 on the UK /European art markets. Size: L:235mm / W:295mm ; 3.9kg