Figure of a bearded foreigner

This pottery figure of a bearded man with tall hat is depicted as if holding something. It is thought to represent a foreigner, perhaps a merchant or groom who would have travelled to China on horse-back during the Tang period. This piece would have a part of a larger group of burial figures made for the tombs of the ruling elite.The custom of making ‘mingqi’ or burial wares was an ancient practice. It was believed that these wares were necessary for the deceased in the next world. Large groups of attendants and other figures were also a display of wealth and social status.

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