Standing Warrior

Currently not on view

Standing Warrior

Early 7th century

Artist/maker unknown, Chinese

During the Tang dynasty, a pair of warriors was often placed with a corresponding pair of guardian beasts near the entry of important tombs. Fully clad in colorful armor representative of what was worn by real soldiers at the time, this figure (and its pair, Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2005-92-6) stands on a low platform with a solemn expression. His left hand is clenched in a position that indicates it once held a weapon, while the right hand rests on arectangular shield supported by his right foot. This warrior sports the so-called “bright and shining armor,” which is characterized by the two gilded metal ovals on the front of his chest.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Standing Warrior

Date:

Early 7th century

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, Chinese

Medium:

Painted pottery with gilt decoration

Dimensions:

21 1/4 × 7 1/2 × 5 1/8 inches (54 × 19 × 13 cm)

Classification:

Sculpture

Credit Line:

Gift of Jeffrey C. and Carol B. Blank, 2005

Accession Number:

2005-92-7

Geography:

Made in China, Asia

Context:

Dynasty: Tang Dynasty (618-907)

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Currently not on view