Among the larger figurine pieces, this figure is depicted with his hands in front as if holding a long weapon. He stands attentive with his chin slightly lowered and eyes staring upward, signaling the gesture of humility. It is possible that this soldier represents not one who is about to engage in battle, but an escort who accompanies traveling foreign missions. Given the figure's dark skin, facial hair and pronounced features, it is likely that he is of foreign stock. The soldier is dressed in a three-quarter length white robe with black borders and belt, with flowing trousers, rounded boots and a tight cap that rises into a crest at the back. The folds of his garment are stylistically rendered in his bent arms. Painted with natural pigment, the figure is in good shape with heavy incrustation on the lower body. Tang Dynasty figurine art is characterized by a desire to give the deceased status rather than to merely recreate daily life. As the Han emphasized agricultural and domestic pursuits, the Tang explored the sophisticated world of the aristocracy, reflected in figurine subjects that signified wealth and mobility. Interest in the outside world grew within Tang's cosmopolitan setting. Scenes of foreign entertainers, merchants and missions stimulated a fascination for things foreign, which was reflected in many areas of the arts. - (H.047d)

Antiquities
Ancient Asian