Artwork preview

Flying Celestial Apsara (Feitian 飛天)

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The sculpture, titled "Flying Celestial Apsara (Feitian 飛天)" by an unknown artist, depicts a figure carved in relief on a diamond-shaped stone or wood panel. The figure appears to be floating, with one arm raised and bent at the elbow, and the other arm bent across the chest. The figure has short hair and wears a draped garment. The background of the panel features swirling patterns of clouds or waves. The figure and panel are rendered in a light brown color with visible texture and shading, suggesting a three-dimensional quality. The overall design and style suggest an Asian influence, possibly Chinese or Southeast Asian.

Artwork Details

Date
7th century
Medium
Earthenware with traces of pigment
Culture
China
Dimensions
468 × 624 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette