Ming Dynasty Pottery Male Servant Figure Circa 14th-17th century AD This finely crafted pottery figure depicts a male servant standing on an unglazed, two-stepped base. The figure is dressed in a long green robe, highlighted by contrasting yellow cuffs and a yellow sash tied around his waist. Beneath the green garment, yellow trousers are visible, complemented by an unglazed collar peeking from under the robe. The figure’s right hand is held modestly to the chest, while the left arm hangs loosely by his side, concealed within an extended sleeve. His face is serene, with a gentle smile and slightly squinted eyes, all crowned by a conical hat atop his head. Mingqi, the funerary figures, were crafted to accompany the deceased into the afterlife. Mingqi represented various aspects of daily life, including servants, soldiers, musicians, and animals. These figures were believed to serve the departed in the afterworld, ensuring their continued comfort and well-being. The shapes of mingqi varied widely, reflecting the diversity of roles and activities present in the earthly realm. The inclusion of such figures in tombs aimed to reflect the deceased's familiar surroundings, emphasizing the importance of continuity and the preservation of earthly comforts beyond the mortal realm. Dimensions: 285mm x 115mm; weight 965g Provenance: Private UK collection; From an old British collection formed in the 1990s. Disclaimer: NO SHIPPING OUTSIDE OF THE EUROPEAN UNION. All items will be shipped from Belgium. The seller guarantees and can prove that the object was obtained legally. The seller was informed by Catawiki that they had to provide the documentation required by the laws and regulations in their country of residence. The seller guarantees and is entitled to sell/export this object. The seller will provide all provenance information known about the object to the buyer. The seller ensures that any necessary permits are/will be arranged. The seller will inform the buyer immediately about any delays in obtaining such permits. The seller will not ship outside the EU. Catawiki disclaimer: This piece has been dated based on style by the seller . No further tests, such as, a TL test, analysis of pigments or radiography scans have been conducted to check the integrity of the piece.