Lot 94

Chinese Tang Dynasty Terracotta Mingqi Tomb Figures, Group of Three

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Lot 94
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Chinese Tang Dynasty Terracotta Mingqi Tomb Figures, Group of Three
Chinese Tang Dynasty Terracotta Mingqi Tomb Figures, Group of Three
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Chinese Tang Dynasty Terracotta Mingqi Tomb Figures, Group of Three

Estimate: $1,000 - $1,500

Starting Bid: $500

(0 Bids)
by Artemis Fine Arts
August 6, 2026 9:00 AM MDT
Live Auction
686 S. Taylor Avenue
Suite 108
Louisville, CO, US 80027

East Asia, China, Tang Dynasty, ca. 618–907 CE. A group of three unglazed terracotta tomb figures (mingqi) modeled as standing attendants in long robes. The tallest wears an elaborate high coiffure and holds the hands together at the chest beneath draped sleeves; the two smaller figures stand in similar attitudes with hair dressed in topknots. The reddish earthenware has remains of white cold painted pigments and earthen burial deposits across the surfaces. Such figures were produced in quantity for interment, placed in tombs to serve the deceased in the afterlife as retainers and companions. Size of largest figure: 2.4" W x 9" H x 2" D (6.1 cm W x 22.9 cm H x 5.1 cm D).

From the collection of Eugene Rotberg (1930-2025), longtime vice president and treasurer of the World Bank, noted collector of Asian art, and a figure widely regarded as one of the most influential in international finance of the late 20th century.

Provenance: private Colorado, USA collection, from the estate of Eugene and Iris Rotberg, acquired before 2000

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Item # 203880

  • Condition: Softening to finer details and losses to pigments. Chips and abrasions to high pointed areas. Smallest figure has a lott to base. Mineral and earthen deposits. Comes with acrylic display stand.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000