Title
Mythical beast, Tricorn
Year/Period
Han dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE)
Region
China
Material
Earthenware
Technique
Moulded
Dimension
Object size: H19.0 x W33.8 x D9.0 cm
Accession No.
C-1264
Collection of
NLB Type
Ceramic
This unglazed grey pottery figure of a mythical beast, is also known as tricorn. The lowered head, two horns on the back of the neck, the curled tail, and a spiral shaped muscular haunch make this piece appear as if it is about to charge. This tricorn was one of two tomb guardians. It is 'mingqi' or burial ware that would have been part of a larger group of funerary items interred in the grave of a member of the ruling elite. The custom was an ancient one. It is thought these wares were necessary for the deceased in the next world. Elaborate groups of burial wares were also a display of wealth and social status.
