Tomb guardian in form of a civil official

Korea

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 207

During the Joseon dynasty in Korea, the commemoration of ancestors through ritual took on a new significance. Stone sculptures of human figures and animals were placed around grave mounds to honor and guard the tomb. This example was one of a pair. The figure wears the robe and hat of a civil official. He holds an audience tablet, lifted with both hands and held below his chin. This pose, along with his slightly hunched shoulders, indicates respect and humility.

Tomb guardian in form of a civil official, Granite, Korea

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