Camel

Place of OriginChina

DateTang Dynasty (618-907), 700-750

DimensionsH: 30 3/4 in. (78.2 cm)

MediumGlazed Earthenware

ClassificationCeramics

Credit LineGeorge E. Pomeroy Bequest Fund

Object number

1949.163A

Not on View

Label TextThis sculpture, found in a tomb, represents a foreign groom riding a camel. Originally the groom might have held reins. His large nose, bulging eyes, and upturned mustache are stereotypical characteristics that Tang Dynasty artists used in depicting Westerners. The lapelled tunic, trousers, and high boots indicate his Central Asian origin. Foreigners—including their use of exotic animals—fascinated the Tang aristocracy. This tomb figure suggests the deceased’s financial ability, or at least an aspiration, to have foreign animals and grooms in his or her personal entourage. Marked by territorial conquests, economic expansion, and cultural blooming, Tang China was one of the greatest empires in the medieval world. Its borders encompassed lands from Korea to Vietnam to Central Asia, and its trade routes stretched from Japan to Constantinople. Foreigners merchants, entertainers, monks, diplomatic envoys, and grooms flooded into the country. Traders often used camels to carry goods along the Silk Road, because these animals could travel long distances without water. This statue indicates the cosmopolitan nature of the Tang Dynasty and reveals not only details of everyday life, but also positive attitudes toward the external world.