Entertainer
Northern dynasties, 6th century
Medium
Buff earthenware with pigment
Dimensions
H.: 27 cm (10 in.)
Classification
earthenware
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
147008
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
In ancient China, clay figures were buried in tombs to accompany the deceased into the afterlife. It was believed that these figures would “live” within the tomb, providing perpetual companionship and protection to the tomb owner. This particular figure, wearing a soft cap, cowl-neck tunic, and boots, may represent a Central Asian entertainer in the act of balancing an object on his forehead, which is pierced with a hole that would have supported a stick (now lost). The figure, depicted with re...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...