Zodiac Figure: Snake
The seventeenth and eighteenth centuries witnessed a revival of half-human, half-animal depictions of the zodiac, which were probably inspired by an antiquarian interest. Each animal is cast like an enthusiastic actor, dressed in a purple jacket and blue pants and striking an animated pose. This small porcelain sculpture is from a twelve-piece set that would have been displayed in a residence, serving both as an auspicious decoration and as a means to dispel evil influences.
This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.
This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.