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 of 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 most
likely interred in order to ward off potential tomb
robbers or perhaps evil spirits in the next world
that might try to infiltrate the tomb. This
mythological beast combines the body of an ox,
complete with hooves, with the head of a lion.
Wings emerge from his shoulders and flames
crown his head. Furthermore, a pair of antlers
rises from his head, framing the crest of flames
and adding to his hostile appearance. The work
is covered in a gorgeous tri-colored Sancai glaze
that partially imitates the spotted and stripped
coat of various exotic beasts. Although these
works are supposed to be frightful, the
masterfully delicate sculpting of their flaming
heads and the gorgeous colors of their Sancai
glaze prove more attractive than repelling.
- (H.681)
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