China, Tang Dynasty, ca. 618 to 907 CE. Very rare to find! Pair of molded terracotta figures representing individuals who suffered from dwarfism. Each with large heads, short bodies, heads bowed with hands in front of their large bellies. Size: 2.75" W x 6.5" H (7 cm x 16.5 cm)

Little is written or known about the public perception of individuals suffering from body malformations in the ancient Chinese world. In Pre-Columbian cultures these individuals seemed to be revered as more spiritual and perhaps even god-like. Let's hope that was the case in the far east.

Provenance: private Los Angeles, California, USA collection

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Item # 192376

  • Condition: Good. Each figure intact, one with cracks showing where two parts of the molds are attached.

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by Artemis Fine Arts
June 25, 2026 9:00 AM MDT
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Artemis Fine Arts

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