Covered box with three animals crossing a river

17th century

Not on view

On loan to The Met

This work of art is currently on loan to the museum.

The image on the lid is derived from a famous manual of ink cakes first published in 1589. The scene delivers a profound message about paths to Buddhist enlightenment. The rabbit swims at river surface, the horse tests shallow waters, and the elephant wades in deeply. Not only did the artist transform the woodblock drawing into a three-dimensional artwork, but he augmented its imagery and message, adding mythical creatures to the box’s sides, suggesting fierce powers lurking beneath the water.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

明晚期盧唯良款銅鎏金三獸渡河圖盒
Title: Covered box with three animals crossing a river
Artist: Lu Weiliang (Chinese, active 17th century)
Period: Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
Date: 17th century
Culture: China
Medium: Copper alloy, parcel gilding
Dimensions: H. 2 7/8 in. (7.3 cm); L. 5 ½ in. (13.8 cm); W. 4 5/8 in. (11.5 cm)
Classification: Metalwork
Credit Line: Promised Gift of Jianguang Gao
Curatorial Department: Asian Art