A Group of Four Pottery Ducks

Eastern Han Dynasty, Sichuan Province, China, 25–220 CE Rare group of four painted grey terracotta ducks created as mingqi funerary figures during the Eastern Han Dynasty. Animal sculptures of this type symbolized abundance, domestic prosperity, and the continuation of earthly comforts in the afterlife. Rendered in simplified yet expressive forms, the figures reflect the Han sculptor's interest in naturalistic observation. Traces of original pigments remain visible across the surfaces, along with mineral accumulations, enhancing their archaeological character. Pottery waterfowl were commonly placed within tombs alongside architectural and agricultural models as part of an idealized vision of spiritual harmony beyond death.