Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a beautifully detailed, large painted earthenware figure depicting a plump Tang-style court lady, often referred to as a 'Fat Lady.' She is uniquely adorned with a small child held in her hands, a parrot perched on her left shoulder, and a small dog standing at her feet.
Story
During the Tang Dynasty, the ideal of female beauty shifted dramatically from slender to voluptuous, championed by the famous imperial consort Yang Guifei. This figure captures that celebrated opulence, surrounded by her beloved domestic companions.
Maker / Origin
While modeled after the famous tomb sculptures (mingqi) of the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD), figures of this specific style and preservation were also highly sought after and reproduced by skilled Chinese artisans in the late 19th and 20th centuries to meet Western demand for archaeological art.
Condition & Value
The figure shows significant surface wear, fading, and losses to the cold-painted pigments, which is typical for earthenware of this style. There is accumulated dirt and minor chipping around the base.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.