Petit Chinese Ming Dynasty 17th Century Terracotta Granary with Verdigris Patina

This 17th-century Chinese granary model from the Ming Dynasty is hand-formed from terracotta and retains a natural greenish patina that speaks to its age and burial history. Shaped with a pointed top and supported by three small legs, the piece reflects the architectural form of traditional granaries once common in rural China. Its textured surface and aged coloration create a quiet but compelling visual presence, offering a tactile link to centuries-old craftsmanship. Historically, such models were placed in tombs as symbolic offerings, representing food storage structures meant to ensure comfort and sustenance in the afterlife. Today, this miniature granary functions as more than a decorative accent—it serves as a meaningful artifact that brings cultural context into a space. Whether displayed on a bookshelf, side table, or within a collection of antiquities, it invites a closer look and offers a tangible connection to Ming-era burial traditions and material culture.