Lamp in the Shape of a Seated Man

Eastern Han dynasty (25–220)
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 sturdy man in a rigid seated posture boasts thick eyebrows, large eyes, a high nose bridge, and a full beard, distinguishing him as non-Chinese. He is sometimes described as being naked because of the curved contour lines visible on the body, but two incised lines around his neck may represent the collar of a thin garment. The sketchy vertical incisions below the collar lines may delineate the rough texture of a woven textile.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 东汉 陶人俑灯
  • Title: Lamp in the Shape of a Seated Man
  • Period: Eastern Han dynasty (25–220)
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Earthenware
  • Dimensions: H. 11 13/16 in. (30 cm)
    Lamp: Diam. 4 1/8 in. (10.5 cm)
  • Classification: Ceramics
  • Credit Line: Lent by Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Museum
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art