Miniature Mingqi Robe Rack

This miniature robe rack made out of glazed ceramic is called a mingqi or “spirit object.” Mingqi were buried in tombs and represented all of the things the deceased might need in their next life or in the transition to getting there: weapons, armor, bodyguards, horses, and even more mundane things from daily life, like musical instruments—or this tiny rack on which to hang clothing. The form, glaze and oxidation is consistent with mingqi created during the Tang Dynasty (618BC-906BC)