Originating during the Six Dynasties period
(222-589 A.D.), this type of figure is known as a
tomb guardian, for originally, a pair of such
figures always stood guard at the tombs of
Chinese rulers. Traditionally, both figures in the
pair are mythological composite creatures, one
always an amalgamation various animals while
the other combined of human and animal traits.
These guardians are a general type of Chinese art
known as mingqi. Mingqi were any of a variety
of objects specifically created for interment in
the tombs of elite individuals in order to provide
for the afterlife. These guardians were interred
in order to ward off potential tomb robbers or
evil spirits that might try to infiltrate the tomb.
While just half of a pair, this guardian stands
alone, revealing the exotic beauty of these
fantastical creatures.
This mythological beast combines the body and
face of a feline with the legs and hooves of a
horse. Undulating fiery waves rise from his arms,
alternately painted green with a black stripe or
left unadorned, culminating in a large orange
peak that rises from his head. From in between
his ears that appear almost like fish fins, rises an
undulating antler and a segmented black horn,
both framed by the orange flame behind. The
bright polychrome that covers this sculpture is
remarkably intact. His shoulders are painted
orange and his legs and face are adorned with
the black stripes of a tiger. A gorgeous floral
pattern rendered in orange, green, and black
decorates his chest. His snarling face, complete
with tiny fangs, has been expertly rendered,
conveying a determined expression that is fierce
and intimidating. Although this work was
supposed to frighten away intruders, the
masterfully delicate sculpting and gorgeous
colors prove far more attractive than repelling.
- (H.1063)
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