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Head of Warrior

Western Han dynasty (206 BCE–9 CE)
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
This detailed visage of a young warrior is among the most striking to be recovered from the tomb of Emperor Jing (r. 157–141 B.C.). His well-modeled physical features perpetuate the “realism” of Qin sculpture—represented most notably by the terracotta warriors of the First Emperor of Qin. Although this tendency toward naturalism survived into the early phases of Han figural art, it was only a brief episode, soon to be replaced by a highly stylized portrayal of the human form.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 西汉 陶武士俑头
  • Title: Head of Warrior
  • Period: Western Han dynasty (206 BCE–9 CE)
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Earthenware with pigment
  • Dimensions: H. 4 3/4 in. (12.1 cm); W. 2 5/8 in. (6.7 cm); W. 3 1/4 in. (8.3 cm)
  • Classification: Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Lent by Museum of Yangling Mausoleum
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art