A fine hollow-mould terracotta Chinese Tang period statuette of a female court attendant. The figure is shown wearing a long robe with flaring sleeves. The figure is presented standing, with the both arms held to the chest. Her hands are clasped together in front, and in her hands, there is a small perforation, which would possibly have once held an accoutrement or have been used for offerings, such as incense, but is now blocked. Her face shows a serene expression and she wears a slightly slanted headpiece. Some remnants of the original pink pigmentation remain on the surface. Earthly encrustations to the surface and signs of wear as consistent with its age. Such figurines were made as burial objects and grave goods to be placed in the tomb, often as a larger group forming a procession for the deceased. Figures of this type are called mingqi in Chinese and usually depict servants, officials, soldiers, musicians, court attendants, dancers and animals. Grave goods were an important status symbol in ancient China, and such terracotta figures were made for the service and entertainment of the owner, ensuring that their journey in the underworld was a happy one. Measurements: (circa) H 19cm x W 5.2cm x D 4.3cm Provenance: From the collection of a West Country gentleman, formed in 1970s