This large unglazed figure of a standing, two-humped camel is portrayed with its head held high and thrown back. There are remains of red pigment on this camel which served as a burial ware or ‘mingqi’ during the Tang dynasty (618- 906). Camels, which are not indigenous to China, were important in transporting goods along the Silk Route. The Han dynasty started the use of pottery camels as burial items. These were mostly buried in the tombs of the aristocracy.The custom of making ‘mingqi’ or burial wares was an ancient one. It is thought these wares were necessary for the deceased in the next world. Elaborate groups of burial wares were also a display of wealth and social status.
