C. 202 BC to 220 AD. Han Dynasty. A pair of delicate Han Dynasty dancers with long sleeves. Both dancers are wearing a long flowing gowns with overlength sleeves which hide their hands. Both are in matching postitions with one long sleeve thrown over the shoulder, the other trailing down, as the dancer flexes her knees and lifts one heel to advance her step. This particualr motion was described in a Han Dynasty poem as follows "Their long sleeves, twirling and twisting, fill the hall; Gauze-stocking feet…taking mincing steps, Move with slow and easy gait They hover about long and continuous, as if Stopped in mid-air; Dazed, one thinks they are about to fall…" This piece has been precisely dated having undergone Thermo Luminescence analysis by Ralf Kotalla, an independent German Laboratory. The samples collected date the piece to the period reflected in its style, whilst also showing no modern trace elements. Its TL certificate with full report will also accompany this lot. Good condition. Size: L:Set of 2: 450mm / W:340mm ; 8.5kg; Provenance; Property of a Central London gallery, acquired from an established English collection; formerly acquired in Hong Kong, Hollywood Antique Center in the early 1990s.