Description:

East Asia, China, Song to Ming Dynasty, ca. 960 to 1644 CE. A mold-made stucco or pottery tile featuring a high-relief fu lion, a mythical guardian revered in Chinese tradition. The creature's face is turned slightly, showcasing a short snout with dragon-like features and a flowing ribbon draped from its neck. Traces of white, green, and yellow pigment remain on the surface. Traditional Chinese architecture, particularly temples, palaces, and elite residences, often incorporated terracotta or stoneware elements like this to adorn wooden structures. Roofs in Chinese culture symbolize a bridge between the earthly and spiritual realms, frequently decorated with stucco and pottery figures to ward off evil and attract good fortune. Notably, before firing, the wet clay was pressed by an artisan's open hand on the verso, leaving a perfect handprint - a tangible connection to its creator. Size: 10" L x 6.125" W (25.4 cm x 15.6 cm).

Provenance: private Los Angeles, California, USA collection, acquired from 1990 to 2005

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#192471

  • Condition: Weathering and softening to details as expected with age and exposure to elements. Small area of restoration with new material to the lower right corner rim and to the leg. Chips and losses to the peripheries. Fading and losses to pigment, but remains throughout.

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March 27, 2025 10:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$300 $999 $50
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$2,000 $4,999 $250
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$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
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