Authentic Ming Dynasty Terra Cotta Carnival Performer Statue, China

Click the photo above for a larger version and more pictures

Detail:  Temple fairs are a Chinese tradition, especially in Beijing.  Dating back to the Liao Dynasty, city folk and peasants from outlining areas would gather at these fairs and buy/trade clothes, jewelry, birds, fish and insects . . . and attend the many events and carnivals.  During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), “temple fairs” became widespread throughout China.   This is a terra cotta figure of a carnival performer decorated with traces of red and blue pastels.  Comes with a simple marble base for easy display.  Acquired from an antiquity galley in West Virginia in 1999.  Has been in my private collection.

For the Serious Collector.