A LARGE AND IMPOSING FIGURE 7572. LARGE TONG DYNASTY TOMB GUARDIAN. China, Tong (Tang) Dynasty, 618-970 AD. Large ceramic figure of an imposing tomb guardian warrior wearing armor and standing triumphant on the back of a prostrate earth spirit (zhenmushou) with high pointed hat he has defeated. Height 30 inches. 30 lb. Excellent quality and detail. Restoration to right forearm and professional repair at waist, otherwise all original. A large and rare piece of exceptional style. Provenance: An extensive North Eastern collection, acquired by private sale from the collection of a New York City entertainer in the early 1990's. $12,000.