Terracotta Sculptures and Carvings

Chinese Painted Terracotta Horse, Possibly Han Dynasty, 206 BC–220 AD This impressive Chinese terra cotta horse came out of the fine collect...

A wonderful antique/ancient terracotta clay made Japanese ritual burial funeray Haniwa warrior sculpture. These large (some were life sized) hollow figures were made for the Japanes...

I’ve always thought the Pyu pieces carried a very different feeling from later Burmese Buddhist art. Simpler in some ways, but often much more immediate. This votive is a good examp...

A massive pottery pair of horses standing on all fours and striding with its right hoof forward. Extended snout ends in parted lips showing teeth beneath in a braying attitude. Low relief bridle on face and well defined eyes. Raised mane down back of the neck A fantastic example of the Wei dynasty horses. Large, exquisite walking Ferghana horses with great attention paid to anatomical detail were the choice of the wealthy. The horse was second only in importance to the dragon. It was supposed to possess magical powers which the early Chinese were eager to explore. It would be the horse that would carry the deceased to the next life and it would be the amount of horses that an individual owned that would guarantee his ongoing status in the hereafter. Thermoluminescence certificate from Madrid Labs included. In southern China, people turned to Daoism, and mingqi, as well as above-ground sculptures, became ever more infused with animal iconography and energized with dynamic lines. The north of China was eventually united by nomadic Tuoba invaders who founded the Northern Wei dynasty...

A vintage Italian classic Tuscan terracotta clay statuette of a regal lion in a guardian position, in good condition. Wear consistent with age ...

An authentic Pyu or other early Burmese Buddha tablet. Over 1000 years old (and possibly closer to 12 or 14 hundred years old), this type was typically made in large numbers and buri...

1819 Antique pair hand crafted terracotta wall plaques one depicting trees with man fishing two depicting a mountain peak Has hanging hardware for mounting to wall

This nice Japanese Haniwa-style horse sculpture is a replica or modern interpretation of Haniwa, ancient Japanese terracotta figures placed on tomb mounds during the Kofun period. ...

This Chinese terracotta group of figures is made up of three figures of Chinese dignitaries in glazed green and ocher terracotta on hexagonal bases and removable heads. From the d...

Tang Dynasty Terracotta Horse with Rider Circa 618–907 CE This Tang dynasty terracotta horse with rider is sculpted with a calm authority and balanced proportions characteristic of ...

A vintage Tuscan clay head of Dionisio Etrusco Bacco made of hand crafted terra cotta, in good condition. Minor fading, scratches due to age. Wear consistent...

This vintage Italian detailed head is made of hand crafted terracotta clay, in good condition. Wear consistent with age and use. circa 1918, Italy. Bronzo di Riace was one of the ...

A remarkable pair of large Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) earthenware Imperial roof decorations - ornamental architectural terracotta roof tile beasts. 15th/16th century or earlier, Northern China, most likely Forbidden City, Dongcheng District, Beijing, figural pottery modeled as mythical qilin (foo dog / guardian lion), the crouching beast with legs back and flaming body depicted ready to pounce. Retaining partial remnants of the red wax export seal, indicating they are authentic and were legally exported out of the country. Dimensions: (approx) Largest: 18" Tall, 19" Wide, 8" Deep History: Chinese roof tiles have been a part of Chinese architecture for over 2,000 years. These unique and beautifully crafted tiles have become an integral part of traditional Chinese culture, and have gained international recognition for their beauty and cultural significance. In this article, we will explore the different types of Chinese roof tiles, their construction, cultural significance, preservation and restoration techniques, and modern uses. Chinese imperial roof decorations or roof charms or roof-figures (Chinese: 檐獸/檐兽; pinyin: yán shòu) or "walking beasts" (Chinese: 走獸/走兽; pinyin: zǒu shòu) or "crouching beasts" (Chinese: 蹲獸/蹲兽; pinyin: Dūn shòu) were statutes placed along the ridge line of official buildings of the Chinese empire. Only official buildings (palaces, government buildings, and some temples) were permitted to use such roof decorations. Occasionally arranged in an outward marching procession with various different examples, the number and type indicating the importance of the duties performed within the building or within the courtyard protected by a gate. With a maximum number of nine, the mythical beast was one of the highest in rank, thus modeled set to pounce upon the man and lower ranking creatures, ready to devour them should they stray from performing their duties with faithfulness and rectitude The Design and Construction of Chinese Roofs: The roof design is an important aspect of Chinese architecture, with each component of the roof playing a specific role. Chinese roof tiles fit into the overall design of the roof and are placed on top of wooden supports called purlins. The interlocking system of Chinese roof tiles ensures that they stay in place and prevent leaks. Ridge tiles...

A wonderful antique/ancient terracotta clay made Japanese ritual burial funeray full body Haniwa dancing sculpture. These large (some were life sized) hollow figures were made for t...

This small clay plaque is an antique tsatsa amulet, a form of votive offering created by devotees of Tibetan Buddhism. Three Buddhist deities are stamped onto the front, including Sh...

Magnificent standing horse in orange terracotta and traces of painting. With a finely decorated saddle and with the mane and tail hair braided. TL Test by Ralph Kotalla Lab NE: 09K12...

Ancient Japanese Kofun Period Haniwa Terracotta Warrior Figure An exceptional Japanese Haniwa terracotta warrior figure, probably dating to the Kofun period, circa 6th century AD, r...

A fine ancient figural bust. In stucco on terracotta. In the form of the Buddha or a bodhisattva (possibly Avalokiteśvara/Guanyin). Mounted on a black wooden plinth. Simply a won...

A massive pottery horse with separately made head and tail, standing on all fours and striding with its right hoof forward. Extended snout ends in parted lips showing teeth beneath i...

A very rare and decidedly charming half-scale terracotta sculpture of the bodhisattva Maitreya, the Buddha of the Future, ancient region of Gandha...

A charming head of a young male, Majapahit Empire, region of Trowulan, Eastern Java, Indonesia, 13th-14th century. The head well sculpted as a smiling, youthful male with buck teet...

A set of beautiful terracotta court ladies in the Han dynasty style. Featured are governesses whose jobs are to train the ladies of the house all manners and etiquette, as well as th...

This antique Burmese Buddha amulet is a charming example of 19th-century Buddhist devotional art, originating from Myanmar and crafted in the elegant Shan (Tai Yai) style. Measuring ...

A magnificent pair of male and female courtiers from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 CE) in excellent condition. They are wearing traditional Daopao robes in green and black garments wit...

Beautiful pair of Chinese glazed terra cotta foo fogs roof tiles. Amazing sculpting details and colors.

A Tang dynasty sancai (three color) glazed pottery model of a Taoist official, TL tested by Ralf Kotalla - worldwide oldest private laboratory specialized for genuine thermoluminesce...

Magnificent Mythological Being "Chimera" with Human Face and Flaming Rays Halo. Orange Terracotta with Traces of Stucco and Painting. This creature is commonly known as Pixiu. Fierc...

This Han pottery figure of a foot soldier is molded and engraved with facial details. It has been fired at high temperatures. The color pigments are painte...

A lifesize terracotta head in Gandhara style. Based on the style, it is likely from Kushan period Northern India, circa 4th-6th century. The expres...

A large and heavy fired clay (terracotta) head of an Arhat (also known as Luohan in Chinese). The followers of Buddha who achieved the enlightenment, statues of Arhats are always fou...

Tang Equestrians 14.5h Each is an unglazed grey pottery horse with a musician rider. The horse is depicted standing on four legs on a base with a rider playing a musical instrument....

A very rare larger than life size late C18th/early C19th terracotta figure of a male diety, in the Khmer style, the figure sitting in a relaxed pose, with hair tied up and a serene c...

These 3 antique Chinese terracotta statue plaques give a glimpse into the world of 19th century ancient China. Made in terracotta, each plaqu...

Extremely rare Chinese model of a countryside villa for the royal courtiers and ministries of the Ming Dynasty -1368-1644 AD- showing three guest houses and one main entry. The villa is surrounded by a cuadrangular wall painted with bucolic scenes of garden, mountains, and bamboo forests. The roof tiles are glazed in green enamel with yellow finials – as the ones in the forbidden city – typical from the Ming epoch. Truly a museum piece. The doors swivel and are painted in ochre. State of preservation: impeccable mint condition with original paintings, all of the original parts are complete, except for one house which is missing part of the plinth (broken during transport). Each part has been tested for authenticity, consisting of eight separate TL tests...

This Han pottery figure of a foot soldier is molded and engraved with facial details. It has been fired at high temperatures. The color pigments are painte...

This antique terracotta statue of Krishna, originating from India and dating back to the early 20th century, stands at a height of 40.2 cm. Crafted from terracotta, this piece embodi...

Material: Terracotta 11,5 cm high The base is 9,2 cm wide and 7,2 cm deep The amulet itself (without the base) is 7,5 cm high Shan (Tai Yai) style Bhumisparsha mudra 19th century Wei...

A fine ancient stucco bust on a plinth. In the form of the Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama. Mounted on a black wooden plinth. Retaining an old Stair Galleries auction label and collect...

A fine ancient figural bust. In stucco on terracotta. In the form of the Buddha or a bodhisattva (possibly Avalokiteśvara/Guanyin). With remnants of inlaid colored glass elements ...

I’ve always been drawn to these early Burmese clay votives, especially the larger ones that were clearly meant for a shrine or temple setting rather than personal wear. This example is pre-Pagan to my eye, or at least very early Burmese, and probably getting close to 1000 years old. The face and proportions have that directness the earliest Burmese devotional objects sometimes carry — simple, almost severe at first, but very compelling once you spend time with them. What I especially like here is the scale. Most surviving votives of this type are much smaller and heavily worn down. This one still retains a surprising amount of presence and definition. The clay surface has aged beautifully too. Softened naturally over time, with just enough remaining detail to keep pulling your eye back into the figure. I’ve handled quite a few Burmese votives...

A Chinese Ming Dynasty painted terracotta courtsman figure with original polychromy. Attracting our eye with its weathered appearance and subtle polychromy, this Ming Dynasty terracotta courtsman figure exudes historical charm and elegance. This exquisite statuette, dating from the Chinese Ming Dynasty, features a courtsman resting on a hexagonal base, providing a stable and aesthetically pleasing foundation. Topped with a simple headdress and clothed in a long, flowing robe, the figure showcases a slight movement of the hips, creating a sense of liveliness and grace. His right arm is extended in a gesture, while his left arm remains hidden under his clothes, adding an element of mystery and sophistication. The original polychromy, though weathered, adds a touch of vibrant color that enhances the figure's visual appeal and historical authenticity. This Chinese courtsman figure will make for an exquisite decorative addition to any home. Its refined elegance and rich cultural heritage make it a versatile piece, perfect for placing on a commode, side table, or shelf. Whether in a living room, study, or entryway, this Ming Dynasty figure will bring a touch of ancient Chinese artistry and timeless beauty to any interior space. With its harmonious blend of form and function, this painted terracotta courtsman figure celebrates the enduring appeal of Ming Dynasty art...

This exquisite Antique Indian Terracotta Shiva Lingam is a remarkable representation of Hindu spirituality, originating from India in the late 19th century. Standing at 27.2 cm in he...

This antique Indian terracotta statue depicts the moment when Lord Krishna, a revered figure in Hindu mythology, triumphs over the tyrannical king Kamsa. Crafted during the 19th cent...

This 12th-century Pagan Votive Tablet, originating from Burma (Myanmar), is a significant example of the artistic heritage of the Bagan (Pagan) period, a time renowned for its remark...

This exceptional 12th-century Pagan votive tablet, originating from Burma (Myanmar), showcases the artistic brilliance and spiritual heritage of the Bagan period. Measuring 19.3 cm i...

A fantastic Han style terracotta figure. Such a figure is seen in the Han dynasty dating 206 BC-220 AD. The figure is of an alluring girl who is in a showing his suit. She has a full...

I found these two Quan Yin figures especially difficult to photograph well because so much of what makes them interesting is in the surface and workmanship. They’re terracotta, prob...

This striking pair of Chinese terracotta mortuary statues, created in the Tang Dynasty style, reflects the ancient tradition of placing figurines in tombs to accompany the deceased i...

A Balinese terracotta panel that once adorned a Hindu temple. The panel depicts a male figure semi-robbed with a sarong (a garment consisting of a long piece of cloth worn around the...

Large Buddha head in gilt-leaf terracotta with trace of red polychromy. The Buddha must have been between 2.10m and 2.40m tall (if standing). Headdressed with fine curls and Usnisha ...

A petite Chinese Ming dynasty green glazed terracotta court official figurine from the 15th or 16th century, with original polychromy. Attracting our eye with its vibrant polychromy,...

I don’t think I’ve ever come across another group quite like this. Seven matched early Chinese clay Bodhisattvas, probably pre-Tang and somewhere in the range of 1,500 years old. Fi...

A pair of Qing dynasty 20th century terracotta Chinese hooded priestess sculptures with original paint. Discover the exquisite charm of this pair of 20th century Qing dynasty terraco...

Vintage Italian Regency Style Glazed Terracotta Fruit & Violin Wall Art Plaque. Circa Late 20th Century. Measurements: 28" H x 28" W x 4.5" D.

Tang Dynasty terracotta Pottery Tomb figure of the Lokapala Warrier Deity. Figure molded wearing heavy armor, standing in a dynamic pose with left arm raised in a threatening gesture...

2 Large Antique Indian Terracotta Tent Pole Tops These wonderful pieces have been made in the image of frightening characters to keep evil spirits at bay. The heads would have been...

An antique Qing Dynasty hand painted terracotta head from the 19th century, with striking features and headdress. This antique Qing Dynasty terracotta head from the 19th century draw...

Magnificent prancing horse in orange terracotta with traces of polychrome paint. Springing its right leg with a lively position and an expressive look. With a finely decorated saddle...

A rare fired-clay (terracotta) head of a Luohan with an expressive face circa 18th century or earlier of Chinese Qing Dynasty. Luohans (also known as Arhats) are followers and discip...

Magnificent Prancing Horse in Orange Terracotta with Traces of Yellow Painting. With its Anterior right Leg raised. TL Test by ASA Francine Maurer Laboratory. It was during the "gol...