This earthenware model of a ‘luohan’ bed(罗汉床) is covered with a ‘sancai’ (‘three colour’) glaze of brown, white and green. It was used as a burial ware during the Ming dynasty (1368-1644). The practice of using lead-glazed burial wares had already started during the Han dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE). This glaze technology further developed during the Tang dynasty (618-906) into sancai glaze. This tradition of decoration continued into the Ming period. The custom of making ‘mingqi’ or burial wares was an ancient one. It is thought these wares were necessary for the deceased in the next world. Elaborate groups of burial wares were also a display of wealth and social status.
