Water dropper in the shape of a rhinoceros
This adorable water dropper precisely describes a Javanese rhinoceros, with its stout horn and thick hide with prominent folds. The lifelike appearance suggests that the artist might have modeled the piece after a real animal, perhaps one in the imperial menagerie.
Artwork Details
- 明 銅犀牛形水注
- Title: Water dropper in the shape of a rhinoceros
- Period: Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
- Date: 15th century
- Culture: China
- Medium: Copper alloy
- Dimensions: H. 2 1/8 in (5.4 cm); W. 5 in. (12.7 cm); D. 1 7/8 in. (4.8 cm)
- Classification: Metalwork
- Credit Line: Purchase, The Vincent Astor Foundation Gift, 2015
- Object Number: 2015.294
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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