M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private. . .
At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.
Learn MoreTang Dynasty Terracotta Camel
- This terracotta camel was created during the illustrious Tang Dynasty of China
- Known as mingqi, the sculpture would have been buried with the deceased
- Sculptures of this type retaining such a high degree of original pigmentation are exceptionally rare
- Get complete item description here
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Circa 7th-10th century
Exceptionally rare, this Tang dynasty camel is sculpted in richly pigmented terracotta and has a commanding presence. Created as mingqi—funerary objects intended to accompany the deceased—such works flourished during the Tang dynasty’s cultural zenith between the seventh and tenth centuries CE. The camel’s powerful stance and simplified form reflect the period’s renowned artistic language.
Tang dynasty mingqi represent China’s central role along the Silk Road, a. . .
Circa 7th-10th century
Exceptionally rare, this Tang dynasty camel is sculpted in richly pigmented terracotta and has a commanding presence. Created as mingqi—funerary objects intended to accompany the deceased—such works flourished during the Tang dynasty’s cultural zenith between the seventh and tenth centuries CE. The camel’s powerful stance and simplified form reflect the period’s renowned artistic language.
Tang dynasty mingqi represent China’s central role along the Silk Road, a network that facilitated cultural exchange across East and Central Asia and the Middle East. Camels, essential to long-distance travel and trade, appear frequently in funerary sculpture as symbols of mobility, protection and prosperity, underscoring their importance in both life and the afterlife.
16 1/4" high by 12 1/4" wide by 5" deep
Provenance:
Private collection, Florida
M.S. Rau, New Orleans

| Period: | Pre-17th Century |
| Origin: | China |
| Type: | Figurines/Statuettes |
| Depth: | 5.0 in. (12.7 cm) |
| Width: | 12.25 in. (31.12 cm) |
| Height: | 16.25 in. (41.28 cm) |
At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.
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