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An Antique Japanese Terracotta Haniwa Figure Head

Offered by: Tishu

Description
On offer is a rare Haniwa (埴輪) figure head from Kofun Period (3rd to 6th Centuries AD). The Haniwa figures are made from terracotta clay for ritual use and funerary objects, and they created according to the wazumi technique, in which mounds of coiled clay were built up to shape the figure, layer by layer, and dried into a coarse hard clay.
This head is likely to be part of a whole body figure, made separately from the cylinder-shaped body and attached. It depicts a character with an elaborate coiffure, which was believed to be realistic for the contemporary. The eyes and mouth are carved hole and the nose is molded. Round necklaces were molded and added around the neck, with some of them are now missing. The figure displays a modern sculpture quality interestingly contrasting its age, and has become very popular with collectors in recent years.
The head is presented in a custom made wood base (measurement with the base is 11hx8.5wx7d, the head itself is 9hx7wx7d). Provenance of purchase available from 1970s.

More Information

Period:	Pre 18th Century
Materials:	ceramic
Condition:	Fair. Antique condition largely intact and stable, there is a stable crackle line around the base of the coiffure, possible restoration. Some missing necklace beads. A significant piece.
Creation Date:	3rd-6th century
Styles / Movements:	Asian, Traditional, Ancient Art
Incollect Reference #:	281118

Dimensions

W.	8.5 in;	H.	11 in;	D.	7 in;
W.	21.59 cm;	H.	27.94 cm;	D.	17.78 cm;

Message from Seller:

Tishu, based in Atlanta, GA, offers a diverse collection ranging from Neolithic art to 20th-century collectibles, with a focus on Mid-century design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian textiles, and Contemporary Aboriginal art. Driven by a passion for timeless beauty, the gallery is open by appointment only and offers works that span 5,000 years of history. Reach them at 305-400-0561 or tishu@tishugallery.com.

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