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Seated court lady

8th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 207
This charming figure brings to life a leisure moment at the Tang imperial court. A plump young woman sits in a relaxed pose, a playful lapdog at her feet. Bright, clear-toned glazes, a recent innovation in ceramic technology at the time, enhance her jacket, sash, and skirts with striking colors. The hourglass-shaped stool, originally made of rattan in South Asia, points to the overseas trade and exchange during this prosperous and cosmopolitan age.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 唐 三彩陶仕女俑
  • Title: Seated court lady
  • Period: Tang dynasty (618–907)
  • Date: 8th century
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Earthenware with tri-color (sancai) glaze
  • Dimensions: H. 14 3/4 in. (37.5 cm); W. 5 5/8 in. (14.3 cm); D. 6 1/16 in. (15.4 cm)
  • Classification: Ceramics
  • Credit Line: Purchase, The Vincent Astor Foundation Gift, 2010
  • Object Number: 2010.120
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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