Baku, Mythical Animal

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

White ceramic figurine of a mythical animal called a Baku, crouched down on all fours. The figurine has a long snout similar to an elephant, and small eyes. Its ears are flap-like and its body resembles that of a dog or pig, with a short tail. The figurine is glossy and has a smooth texture. The background is a solid gray color. The artist of the piece is unknown but the title given to it is "Baku, Mythical Animal".