Early 7th century

Standing Warrior

During the Tang dynasty, a pair of warriors was often placed with a corresponding pair of guardian beasts near the entry of important tombs. Fully clad in colorful armor representative of what was worn by real soldiers at the time, this figure (and its pair, Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2005-92-6) stands on a low platform with a solemn expression. His left hand is clenched in a position that indicates it once held a weapon, while the right hand rests on arectangular shield supported by his right foot. This warrior sports the so-called “bright and shining armor,” which is characterized by the two gilded metal ovals on the front of his chest.