Zodiac Figure of an Ox
From the Tang dynasty onward, zodiac animals were routinely given human attributes. Here, the figure is envisioned as a Daoist deity holding the head of an ox. The large Chinese character wang (king) on the front of his hat signifies his heavenly identity.
Artwork Details
- 元 褐釉瓷生肖牛俑
- Title: Zodiac Figure of an Ox
- Period: Yuan dynasty (1271–1368)
- Culture: China
- Medium: Glazed stoneware
- Dimensions: H. 7 7/8 in. (20 cm); W. 2 3/8 in. (6 cm)
- Classification: Tomb Pottery
- Credit Line: Charlotte C. and John C. Weber Collection, Gift of Charlotte C. and John C. Weber, 1994
- Object Number: 1994.605.60
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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