Western Han Dynasty, Ca. 25-220 AD A finely modelled and well-preserved Chinese Western Han Dynasty hollow-moulded terracotta guardian dog, portrayed in a recumbent position . This figure is modelled in a naturalistic manner, with attention given towards the rendering of facial and anatomical features, such as the wide-open eyes, the flattened nose, curled tail and splayed claws. Depicted in the motion of barking, with mouth agape and head slightly tilted upward, revelling pointed fangs. It has been carefully painted after firing, in yellow pigment, with details emphasised in black ochre. For a comparable see: Harvard Art Museum 40.1965. This piece has been precisely dated having undergone Thermo Luminescence analysis by Ralf Kotalla, an independent German Laboratory. The samples collected date the piece to the period reflected in its style, whilst also showing no modern trace elements. Its TL certificate with full report will also accompany this lot. Report no 30AG08042022. Size: L:380mm / W:450mm ; 5.45kg Provenance: East Anglian private collection; formerly acquired in the early 1990s in Hong Kong.