Artwork preview

Tomb Guardian (Zhenmushou)

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

A sculpture depicting a creature with a feline head and body, and a dorsal ridge resembling a row of spikes or fins. The creature's mouth is open, revealing sharp teeth. It has a long snout, two small ears, and two horns on its forehead. The sculpture is made of terracotta and features a weathered, worn appearance with areas of faded red and beige paint. The creature's body is positioned in a dynamic stance with its front legs extended and back legs bent. A flat rectangular base supports the sculpture. The background is a gradient from dark gray to light gray. The title of the piece is "Tomb Guardian (Zhenmushou)".

Artwork details

Date:
mid-to-late 6th century
Medium:
Earthenware with pigment
Culture:
China
Dimensions:
600 × 450 px
Museum record:
View original
Palette