Rider On Camel In Terracotta.

Rider mounted on a terracotta dromedary. Traces of brick red, blue and dark brown pigments. The character seems dressed in European style. His round hat and waistcoat might indicate Spain? He is probably a warrior because what he is carrying on his back seems to be a shield. Interestingly, he is holding in his arms what appears to be a culverin (small cannon), so it would be a mounted artilleryman which is not unthinkable because the Chinese had an artillery regiment mounted on camels, as can be seen on 18th century engravings. Camels are essentially African animals, however they were exported to Mexico and Australia to serve in the desert regions. This rider could therefore be a soldier, serving in the deserts of a Spanish colony, Mauritania, Morocco or Mexico? For dating, a weapon specialist could give a range. The small cannon would indicate a time after the 15th century and the use of the shield would indicate that the muskets were not yet used. Rare and interesting object. Was sold at public auction about twenty years ago as "Tang period china" which is absolutely impossible. The expert must have confused camel and dromedary. One leg is missing an end which makes the statue slightly wobbly. Some parts have been glued (hat, waist, paw) but all are original. There is no plaster replacement. 26cm x 19cm