Tang Dynasty, circa 618-907 AD This unique figure is testament to the beauty and quality of craftsman of terracotta in Tang Dynasty China, the camel has been painted in a buff pigment, with red quarte red and greyish black pigments over white slip. Standing elegantly foursquare on a stylised trapezoid base with head in the raise position, mouth open as if braying, showing teeth, palate, and tongue. The body of the camel is further enhanced by tuft-like hair on the head, neck, humps, and tops of the legs. Tail up and curled. These forms of mingqi (spirit object) were popular in Tang Dynasty which were placed in the tombs of the wealthy deceased to protect the dead from evil. For similar style and period see Ashmolean Museum accession number: EA2012.189. This piece has been precisely dated by means of a Thermo Luminescence analysis carried out by Ralf Kotalla, an independent German Laboratory. The samples collected date the piece to the period reflected in its style, whilst also showing no modern trace elements. The TL certificate with its full report will apany this lot. Size: L:700mm / W:500mm; 18.45kg Provenance: East Anglian private collection; formerly acquired in the early 1990s in Hong Kong.