10.3 Secular Art: Tomb Figurines and Metalwork

The Tang Dynasty saw a boom in secular art, with tomb figurines and metalwork reflecting the era's wealth and cosmopolitanism. These pieces showcased the dynasty's cultural exchange, technological advancements, and changing social norms.

Tomb figurines, known as mingqi, served as afterlife companions for the elite. Metalwork objects, crafted from precious materials, displayed intricate designs and techniques. Both art forms captured the essence of Tang society's sophistication and global connections.

Tang Dynasty Tomb Figurines

Purpose and Significance

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• Mingqi served as substitutes for real objects and living beings in elite burials
  • Reflected deceased's status
  • Provided comfort in the afterlife
• Size and quality varied based on social status
  • Larger and more elaborate sets indicated higher rank and wealth
• Showcased cosmopolitan nature of Tang society
  • Depicted court ladies, musicians, dancers, foreign merchants (Central Asian influences)
  • Incorporated mythical creatures

Production Techniques

• Clay bodies shaped using multi-part molds
  • Allowed for mass production and standardization
• Sancai (three-color) glazing technique hallmark of Tang ceramics
  • Lead glaze with metal oxides produced distinct colors
    • Copper (green)
    • Iron (amber)
    • Cobalt (blue)
• Incorporated Central Asian influences
  • Clothing styles
  • Hairstyles
  • Facial features

Artistic Qualities

• High degree of naturalism and expressiveness
  • Captured dynamic poses
  • Detailed facial expressions
  • Intricate clothing and accessories (hairpins, belts)
• Reflected cultural exchange along Silk Road
  • Foreign merchant figurines (Sogdian traders)
  • Camel and horse figurines
• Varied in size from small (few inches) to life-sized
  • Larger figurines often found in imperial tombs (Emperor Taizong's tomb)

Tang Metalwork Objects

Materials and Techniques

• Primary materials
  • Gold and silver (elite and imperial commissions)
  • Gilt bronze (more widespread use)
• Decorative techniques
  • Repousse created raised designs on metal surfaces
  • Chasing added fine details and textures
  • Inlaid metalwork combined precious metals with gemstones or glass (jade, lapis lazuli)
• Increased production of silver objects
  • Used in tea ceremonies (silver teapots, cups)
  • Given as diplomatic gifts to foreign emissaries (silver bowls, plates)

Motifs and Iconography

• Naturalistic motifs
  • Flowers (peonies, lotuses)
  • Birds (phoenixes, cranes)
  • Animals (dragons, lions)
• Geometric patterns and cloud scrolls inspired by earlier dynasties
  • Interlocking spirals
  • Lozenge patterns
• Religious iconography
  • Buddhist symbols (lotus, dharma wheel)
  • Daoist imagery (immortals, mythical creatures)

Functions and Forms

• Ritual vessels
  • Incense burners
  • Offering dishes
• Drinking vessels
  • Wine cups
  • Tea bowls
• Personal adornments
  • Hairpins
  • Belt buckles
• Decorative objects
  • Mirrors with intricate designs
  • Cosmetic boxes

Tang Dynasty Art: Secular vs Earlier Dynasties

Stylistic Evolution

• Tang art more naturalistic and dynamic
  • Earlier dynasties (Han) more stylized and formal
• Increased emphasis on daily life and leisure scenes
  • Previous focus on ritual and political themes
• More vibrant and diverse use of color
  • Advancements in pigment technology
  • Wider color palette in paintings and ceramics
• Higher level of technical sophistication
  • Advanced production methods (multi-part molds)
  • Refined artistic execution (detailed facial expressions)

Cultural Influences and Subjects

• Broader range of subjects reflecting cosmopolitan society
  • Foreign influences less prevalent in earlier dynasties
• Incorporation of Buddhist and Daoist elements in secular art
  • Previous dynasties focused more on Confucian themes
• Shift in material preferences
  • Tang period emphasized precious metals (silver tableware)
  • Earlier dynasties prioritized bronze for prestige objects
• Evolution in tomb figurine practices
  • Tang burials contained more abundant and varied figurines
  • Reflected changes in afterlife beliefs and burial customs

Technological and Social Changes

• Advancements in ceramic production
  • Tang sancai glazing technique not present in earlier periods
• Increased international trade influenced artistic motifs
  • Silk Road exchanges brought new designs and techniques
• Rise of tea culture impacted metalwork and ceramics
  • Production of specialized tea utensils (silver teapots, ceramic cups)
• Growing wealth and urbanization expanded art patronage
  • Wider range of social classes commissioning artworks