The Han dynasty was the second imperial dynasty of China and is considered a golden age in Chinese history. Lasting over four centuries, the period gave rise to huge economic prosperity and artistic development facilitated by the opening of the Silk Road trade route to Europe.

The arts flourished and for the first time figurative sculptures began to emerge in Chinese art. Prior to this, pottery from the region had comprised primarily of vessels, and it was only during the Han dynasty that works such as these hares began to be used to decorate the tombs of wealthy members of society.

Common examples of this new type of art included architectural models and depictions of farm animals such as these. Sculptures from this period were also often elaborately painted and some of the original decoration can still be seen on the surface of these terracotta models.