Herdboy with water buffalo

18th–19th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 220

Animal and human figures have been a popular trend in Chinese cloisonné production since the mid-eighteenth century. These lively depictions gave new dimension to this traditional art form and added a playful touch to upscale interior spaces. Here, the brown and white enamels successfully mimic a water buffalo’s skin, together with the gilded cloisons representing its hair. Gazing back, the buffalo seems to be enjoying the boy’s flute playing.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

清中期掐絲琺瑯童子牧牛
Title: Herdboy with water buffalo
Period: Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
Date: 18th–19th century
Culture: China
Medium: Cloisonné enamel, gilt copper alloy
Dimensions: H. 16 7/8 in. (42.9 cm); L. 16 1/2 in. (41.9 cm)
Classification: Cloisonné
Credit Line: Gift of Edward G. Kennedy, 1930
Object Number: 30.128.2a–c
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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