Description:

China, Han Dynasty, ca. 206 BCE to 220 CE. A hollow pottery tomb guardian in the form of a mythological chimaera, probably a pixiu (or bixie). In this figure, the creature sits like a dog, short, thin tail up against its back; the face is feline although there is no mane (a lioness? A pixiuess?), with open mouth and lolling tongue and large teeth on upper and lower jaws. Small ears are on either side of the head; large eyes outlined in black with black pupils give it a lifelike look. A trio of flames rise from the back, giving it a fierce appearance. The Han had elaborate tombs, filled with clay figures like this one (in addition to metallic wealth like bronze and iron weapons). Size: 6.7" L x 4.25" W x 9.75" H (17 cm x 10.8 cm x 24.8 cm)

Provenance: Ex-New Jersey Collection

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#117004

  • Condition: One (small) ear is broken and missing; one flame has been reattached but it is well done and the piece appears intact.

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September 22, 2016 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
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