Figure of a Westerner
Place of OriginNorthern China
Dateapprox. 550-700
DynastySui dynasty (581-618) or Tang dynasty (618-907)
MaterialsLow-fired ceramic, molded and sculpted, with straw-colored glaze
DimensionsH. 10 in x W. 2 1/2 in x D. 2 3/8 in, H. 25.4 cm x W. 6.3 cm x D. 5.9 cm
Credit LineTransfer from the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco
Object numberB81P59
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsSculpture
On View
Not on viewStylistically close to the previous piece (cat. no. 131) in proportion, facial features, and the quality of the glaze, this piece might have been potted in the same workshop. Although there is not sufficient recent archaeological evidence to refer to these two as products of the same maker, the hairdo gives the clue to date the piece. The oblate-shaped coiffure was popular until the seventh century and was restyled from the middle Tang by heightening the top with a block of wood within the arrangement.
