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.
Artwork Details
- 清康熙 景德鎮窯素胎彩瓷生肖蛇俑
- Title: Zodiac Figure: Snake
- Period: Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
- Date: 17th century
- Culture: China
- Medium: Porcelain, portions unglazed and with turquoise and aubergine glazes
- Dimensions: H. 6 in. (15.2 cm)
- Classification: Ceramics
- Credit Line: Gift of Birgit and Peter Morse, in memory of Betty and Sydney Morse, 1992
- Object Number: 1992.100.5
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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China
China
17th century
China
1713–22
China
18th century
Tibet or Mongolia
17th century
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