DA5-026: Antique Chinese Sancai Glazed Guardian Lion Roof Tile Late Ming Dynasty

Antique Chinese Sancai Glazed Guardian Lion Roof Tile Late Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644), circa late 16th century, China. The lion is portrayed in motion, striding forward upon a rectangular plinth. Its dragon-like head is held upright, fangs bared through a closed mouth, ears flattened back, with bulging eyes staring intensely ahead. The elaborate mane formed as long tresses of "snail shell" curls, reminiscent of the Buddha's hair. The lion wears a jaunty collar of bells and tassels around his neck and chest, and a ruyi shaped saddle upon its back over a gracefully draped and trailing saddle blanket. Originally, the saddle supported a large open round jar attached to a hidden hollow central support which originally would have held a pole or a standard. The sculpture was originally glazed in bright and deep sancai colors of green, yellow and cream. The glaze shows heavy weathering and degradation, creating a softer and warmer color palette.

Dimensions: Height 14"; Width 17"; Depth 5 1/4"