Tang Dynasty Polo Player #1-- Attaching Legs

Shipping damage to sculptures can be a significant concern, as sculptures are often delicate and can be easily damaged during transit if not adequately protected and handled. Take, for example, these two sculptures portraying polo players from the Tang Dynasty, a historic imperial era in China spanning from 618 to 907 CE. These sculptures capture the dynamic nature of the sport, showcasing horses in full mid-stride gallop, their riders poised for play. Notably, the use of distinct colors on each figure signifies their affiliation with opposing teams, adding visual depth to these artifacts.
These sculptures are made of terracotta, a low-fired ceramic that is quite fragile. Sadly, many sculptures come to The Center with damage due to improper shipping, and this pair was placed in the care of Senior Conservator of Objects and Frames Josh McCauley. Reflecting on the poor shipment, Josh remarked "The pair were shipped to the client very poorly. Shipment mistakes can be devastating to a work of art, something we see a lot of."
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