Pair of Chinese Sancai roof figurines - Ming dynasty - Van Achterbergh collection

Magnificent pair of Chinese Sancai glazed roof figurines from the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), each in the form of a standing servant: one with an animal in its arms, the other holding an offering bowl with tablets. Beautifully glazed in warm shades of ochre, green and black-purple, typical of the famous three-colour palette of the Ming period.

The figures originally stood on temple roofs or grave architecture and served as spiritual watchmen and attendants for the deceased. Despite some signs of age and light restoration, the original glazes have remained beautifully intact, with a soft sheen that attests to their centuries of history.

Origin & meaning
Sancai (“three colours”) glazing was considered a luxurious technique in Tang and Ming times. These servants symbolise loyalty, honour and spiritual protection. This duo is from the renowned collection of J.W.N. van Achterbergh, one of the Netherlands' leading collectors of Chinese ceramics and tribal art, which significantly increases its collector's value.

Dimensions
Height approx. 29-30 cm
Width approx. 11 cm
Depth approx. 9 cm
Condition: signs of age, minor chips and repairs as usual for Ming ceramics.