A Glazed Terracotta Watchtower

An Eastern Han Dynasty glazed terracotta funerary tower from Henan Province, China, created as a mingqi, or spirit object, for elite tomb burials (25–220 CE). Architectural models of this type symbolized status, protection, and prosperity in the afterlife while reflecting the structure of Han domestic and ceremonial life. The tower projects upward from a lower structure, possibly a dwelling. It features multi-tiered roofs, lattice windows, and miniature attendant figures rendered in finely molded detail. Finished in the characteristic green lead glaze associated with Han funerary ceramics, the surface preserves areas of natural mineralization and age-related patina, including iridescence, developed over centuries underground. The playful human figures on the tower are musicians.