Artwork preview

Incense holder in form of a Shishi

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

White ceramic or porcelain incense holder in the form of a Shishi. The Shishi is crouched down on an oval base with a leaf-like border. Its mouth is open, showing sharp teeth and a long tongue with beads or jewels on it. The creature has a large head with pointed ears, a curled tail, and a necklace-like collar. The body has a textured, scaled appearance. The background is dark gray and out of focus.

Artwork Details

Date
1750
Medium
White porcelain (Hirado ware)
Culture
Japan
Dimensions
600 × 473 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette