From Court to Caravan Chinese Tomb Sculptures from the Collection of Anthony
M. Solomon
October 9, 2002 - February 16, 2003
Braying
Camel with Brushed Mane
Northern Qi period (550-577)
Medium gray earthenware with cold-painted pigments; localized areas
with cold-painted pigments over white ground
Bactrian (or two-humped) camels were common in northern China from
Han times (206 B.C.E.-220 C.E.) through the beginning of the twentieth
century, since they were the pack animals that ferried goods over
the Silk Road. Figures of camels became popular in tomb sculptures
from the sixth century onwards. This magnificent camel is celebrated
for its well-brushed mane and wonderfully textured tufts of fur at
the tops of its front legs; it is also notable for the realistic modeling
of the wares it carries, including jars possibly containing wine or
perhaps pickles.
Rockefeller Collection
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