Artwork preview

Chimera

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The sculpture depicts a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a dragon, titled "Chimera" by an unknown artist. The creature has a large head with a long snout and mouth open, showing teeth, and a crown-like structure on top of its head. Its body is covered in intricate carvings, including swirling patterns on its chest, stomach, and back. The creature has wings carved into its sides. It has four legs with the front legs positioned forward and the back legs positioned back, with its front paws and back paws visible. The sculpture is made of dark-colored stone, possibly bronze, with a weathered appearance. It stands on a round base. The background is a gradient from dark gray at the top to light gray at the bottom.

Artwork Details

Date
5th century
Medium
Stone
Culture
China
Dimensions
599 × 499 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette