Qing Imperial Palace: Figurine of Apsara

CHINA, Beijing; Tang dynasty

This white jade figurine of apsara was created during the Tang dynasty and was formerly in the collection of the Qing Imperial Palace.
The apsara is depicted flying and dancing on clouds. The figure has a round face and hair worn in a bun. The body is wrapped with a stole and appears long and slender with the lower half covered in a dhoti. The right arm is bent at the elbow, while the left arm extends behind the figure. The legs are held straight with ankles crossed. The whole figurine expresses grace and elegance in flight. The style of this figurine is similar to apsaras depicted in Tang dynasty murals.