East Asia, China, Tang Dynasty, ca. 618 to 907 CE. A beautiful mold-made ceramic camel, standing on an integral rectangular base, the surface glazed in the characteristic brown, green, and ochre yellow. Between the humps is a bulge suggesting a saddle or bags laden with goods for transport. Tang dynasty elites had tombs full of pottery figures that were made to care for their every need in the afterlife, and this camel was most certainly made for such a purpose. Bactrian camels, because they have 2 humps, were favored by the elite as rides because the humps offered greater comfort than the one hump dromedary cousin. Size: 13" L x 5" W x 14.5" H (33 cm x 12.7 cm x 36.8 cm)

The art of the Tang Dynasty is truly international, reflecting a world in which the Chinese court spread its influence through military conquest and trade to Central Asia, India, Persia, Africa, and southeastern Asia. In this prosperous period, Tang elites imitated the style of the Persians, wearing high boots, short tunics, and leopard skin hats. Music, sport, and dance all emulated Central Asian styles and made them their own.

Nothing is more representative of this cultural milieu than the figure of the Bactrian camel who, with his saddle bags, carried so many of these goods and, by extension, practices east and west along the Silk Road. Travelling west from the Tang capital, Chang'an, the Silk Road passed through Taklamakan Desert. The Bactrian camel was vital to this transport because of its abilities - to go without water for a week, to travel 30 miles a day, and to carry hundreds of pounds, as well as to withstand very hot and very cold temperatures.

Provenance: private Ferndale, Michigan, USA collection; ex-private Detroit, Michigan, USA collection, acquired prior to 2004

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#182133

Abrasions and age expected wear to surface but overall excellent condition. Stable fissures to surface layers and large flake peeling on inner front leg. Tl test hole on the base and second Tl test hole on chest near right front leg, and third Tl test hole underside of jaw.