This fantastic creature might be a playful descendant of the water buffalo, Karlgren Number 90 (50.46.113). Here, however, the sculptural effect is achieved through the long sweeping curves of the body. The spirals emphasizing the shoulders and hindquarters are broad bands with a modified scale pattern which recurs on the tail. The shoulder is further emphasized by a raised ring with turquoise inlay. The eyes, with brows of rope pattern, are also inlaid with turquoise. Further elements of the Huai style are the cowrie band around the neck, granulation on the ears and the tufts of the hind legs, and the tail ending in a bird's head. Patina light green.

Mythological beast, 5th century BCE

Unknown artist, Chinaexpand_more

Bronze and turquoiseexpand_more

Bequest of Alfred F. Pillsburyexpand_more  50.46.111

Not on Viewexpand_more

This fantastic creature combines features from various animals, including a tiger-like head and water buffalo’s hooves. The sculpture catches the moment before the creature is about to leap, and the sculptural effect is achieved through the long sweeping curves of the body. The power of the shoulders is emphasized with a spiral pattern and a raised ring with turquoise inlay. The eyes are also inlaid with turquoise. While a number of contemporary bronze animals of similar scale and configuration have square sockets on their backs and probably served as supports for upright poles, this charming creature may have been cast as an independent stand-alone sculpture.

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Details
Title
Mythological beast
Role
Artist
Accession Number
50.46.111
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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This fantastic creature might be a playful descendant of the water buffalo, Karlgren Number 90 (50.46.113). Here, however, the sculptural effect is achieved through the long sweeping curves of the body. The spirals emphasizing the shoulders and hindquarters are broad bands with a modified scale pattern which recurs on the tail. The shoulder is further emphasized by a raised ring with turquoise inlay. The eyes, with brows of rope pattern, are also inlaid with turquoise. Further elements of the Huai style are the cowrie band around the neck, granulation on the ears and the tufts of the hind legs, and the tail ending in a bird's head. Patina light green.

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