Ancient Chinese Zodiac Figure Holding a Rabbit Polychrome Ceramic Figure, Ming Dynasty (1368–1644)
An important Ming Dynasty zodiac figure representing one of the twelve shengxiao animals, here shown holding a rabbit. This figure belongs to a complete series traditionally placed in Ming era tombs, each guardian carrying one of the zodiac animals to symbolize the cyclical passage of time.
This example is distinguished by its turquoise and deep cobalt blue glaze, not a typical palette for zodiac tomb figures. Much of the original coloration remains intact, but overall in used condition.
Zodiac figures of this type were often arranged along a north/south axis within the coffin chamber to convey temporal progression, a placement believed to enlist the “spirit of time” as a protective force over the tomb. The size and number of such figures in a tomb depended on the social rank of the deceased
In used condition with wear consistent with age.
Size: 7.75”H x 2.75”W x 2.58”D
Ancient Chinese Zodiac Figure Holding a Rabbit Polychrome Ceramic Figure, Ming Dynasty (1368–1644)
An important Ming Dynasty zodiac figure representing one of the twelve shengxiao animals, here shown holding a rabbit. This figure belongs to a complete series traditionally placed in Ming era tombs, each guardian carrying one of the zodiac animals to symbolize the cyclical passage of time.
This example is distinguished by its turquoise and deep cobalt blue glaze, not a typical palette for zodiac tomb figures. Much of the original coloration remains intact, but overall in used condition.
Zodiac figures of this type were often arranged along a north/south axis within the coffin chamber to convey temporal progression, a placement believed to enlist the “spirit of time” as a protective force over the tomb. The size and number of such figures in a tomb depended on the social rank of the deceased
In used condition with wear consistent with age.
Size: 7.75”H x 2.75”W x 2.58”D
