Mortuary figures, pair of, representing warriors both wear armor, with curious head-dresses, and one carries a sword-like object. Four of these figures were found at the entrance of a tomb in Honan province. Two bought by M.I.A., and two by the Boston Museum of Fine Arts. They are fashioned of polychromed pottery of the greyish cast associated with Wei. Traces of faded terra cotta color remain. These are unusually large tomb figures.

Tomb Guardian Figures, early 6th century

Unknown artist, expand_more
On View in Gallery 208expand_more

These guardian figures exhibit the classic elements of the mature Northern Wei style (386-584) including a rigid frontal pose, elongated torso and emphasis on lineal drapery patterns. The facial features are less stylized, however. With active and intent expressions, the heads turn, in contrast to the stiff flat bodies. These figures were unearthed along with two others at the entrance of a Northern Wei tomb in Southern Henan province. The four figures were likely placed against a wall where they functioned as guardians at the tomb door.

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Ni-o (Pair of Temple Guardians) (2 labels ) (#912)
Details
Title
Tomb Guardian Figures
Role
Artist
Dimension
24 in. (60.96 cm)
Accession Number
31.117.1
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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Mortuary figures, pair of, representing warriors both wear armor, with curious head-dresses, and one carries a sword-like object. Four of these figures were found at the entrance of a tomb in Honan province. Two bought by M.I.A., and two by the Boston Museum of Fine Arts. They are fashioned of polychromed pottery of the greyish cast associated with Wei. Traces of faded terra cotta color remain. These are unusually large tomb figures.