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Reclining tiger

4th–3rd century BCE
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 207
Modeled in the round with keenly observed naturalistic details, this regally posed tiger exemplifies the artistic principles of its time. The surface is ornamented with abstract arabesques, a common decorative motif in the fifth to third century B.C. Together with two comparable pieces, the ornament once embellished the cover of a large ritual vessel.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 東周 青銅臥虎
  • Title: Reclining tiger
  • Period: Eastern Zhou dynasty (770–256 BCE)
  • Date: 4th–3rd century BCE
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Bronze
  • Dimensions: H. 4 1/8 in (10.5 cm); L. 6 1/2 in. (16.5 cm)
  • Classification: Metalwork
  • Credit Line: Gift of Ernest Erickson Foundation, 1985
  • Object Number: 1985.214.10
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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