C. 1368-1644 AD. Ming Dynasty. An interesting large size Chinese Ming dynasty hollow glazed ceramic offering table. With beautiful dark green, orange, and black slip. From ancient times it was a common practice for the Chinese to bury miniature replicas of objects, utilitarian and ornamental objects with the deceased. These objects are referred to as Ming qi or spirit object. Usually these were of a practical nature used or favoured by the deceased during his/her lifetime. This practice was taken to extremes by royalty or the wealthiest people. Items such as this table were buried with a departed soul in the belief that they could enjoy their favourite foods and the comfort of eating at the table in the afterlife as they did whilst living. The more common items offered to assist the average deceased person into the other world were practical utilitarian objects such as cooking utensils, miniature replicas of their houses, horses and working animals, as well as a range of furniture and other items made from terracotta. The wealthy and those of royal lineage were buried with more lavish items, such as jade, jewellery and objects made from gold, jade and silver, paintings and books. Provenance: Private British collection; previously in Brian Page collection since the 1980s. Size: L:300mm / W:755mm ; 30kg