Pair Rare and Important Chinese Ceramic Tomb Guardians Tang Dynasty with TL Test

A pair of magnificent Chinese Tomb Guardian statues dated to Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD) and confirmed by TL tests. Known in Chinese as Zhenmushou (Tomb-guarding Beast), the earthenware figurative sculptures were part of the grave goods made for the elite and the wealthy to ensure a wholesome afterlife. Historically specified in pairs during Tang Dynasty, they would have been placed as protectors of the deceased in front of the coffin facing the entrance to ward off the evil spirits. The tradition of placing Zhenmushou in tombs can be traced to the Warring States period (5th–4th century BCE). The earliest examples were found in the graves of Chu Kingdom of that period in Central China. Instead of pottery, those figures were crafted from lacquered wood featuring imaginary animal forms with large antler-like head gears. Over time, the style and material changed. Northern Dynasty (386–581 CE) saw the beginning of single beast made from earthenware before it evolved into pair, which became standardized by Tang Dynasty in the 7th century. The coupling figures were always made in a fantastical hybrid form of animal and human. Often the surface was painted with pigments and sometimes gilt. With time, these figures became more and more fanciful and flamboyant, and many later ones were covered in the iconic three-color (sancai) glazes to enhance their visual effect.
This pair of Zhenmushou is dated circa 8th century of mid-Tang dynasty. Squatting solidly on their clawed feet, the figures showcase a commanding physique with robust barrel-shape chest. The arms were raised up in an exaggerated and pugnacious manner, with the hands open and pointy fingers stretching out as if they were ready to pounce and attack. Under the elbows, triangular web-like fins stick out. The faces, one humanoid, one leonine, were exquisitely molded with superb sculptural quality. The details such as the bulging eyes and gapping mouth, manifested in a fierce expression that evokes awe and fear. Above their heads, twisted hair locks raise up and radiate backward like flames, stilling retaining the original orange colors. More residues of cold-painted pigments could be discerned in many other areas: on the back, animal skin patterns like tiger stripes and leopard marks are still mostly intact and clearly visible. Size listed is for individual one.
Analyzing the style of the pair, we can confidently state that they were made in the 8th century. The skill demanded and the quality achieved indicate that the occupant of the tomb where they were unearthed was of significant social status. Despite being fantastical, these figures still impress the viewer with a realistic quality and are much less flamboyant compared to their counter parts made in later years of Tang Dynasty.
They were acquired in Hongkong by an American collector around 2000. Each statue comes with an Oxford Authentication Ltd Thermoluminescence test nos. C102x45 and C102x46 dated to 2002. Both tests are consistent with the dating period of this pair. The integrity of the pair was examined under UV as intact.
Reference: A closely related intact pair were unearthed in 2009 in Gansu Province and collected in Lingtai County Museum. They were on view at the Clark Art Institute Unearthed: Recent Archaeological Discoveries from Northern China. June 16, 2012 - October 21, 2012 (There is a YouTube video about this pair by the Clark).
Single comparable example is in the collection of Yale Art Gallery (2000.57.4) and Kimball Art Museum (AP 2001.02)
For a pair of Zhenmushou with more elaborate surface paints and gilt that were likely from a slightly later Tang Period, see lot 8 of Christie's NY live auction 16114: The Exceptional Sale (Hammered down at 250.000usd; April 20th, 2018)