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Unicorn
Eastern Han dynasty (25–220)
Bronze
H. 7 7/8 in. (20 cm)
Excavated at Xiaheqing, Jinquan, Gansu Province, 1956
Gansu Provincial Museum
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This bronze unicorn stood alone in the center of the antechamber to the coffin chamber of a tomb. Its placement and aggressive stance indicate that the creature played a protective role. Unicorn-like creatures, which first appear sporadically in the decoration of ritual vessels dating to the Warring States period (481–221 B.C.), are found both as freestanding sculptures and as images engraved on tomb doors and slabs in the Eastern Han. Their frequent appearance indicates the importance of magical practices and good omens during this period.
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