Chinese Glazed Ceramic Roof Ornament, probably Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) in date, represents a warrior riding a mythical lion. Sculptures of auspicious and protective deities were put on roofs in China as early as the Han Dynasty ( 206BCE-220CE). The warrior riding a lion was a popular ornamental tile. This particular interpretation of the subject is very theatrical--the warrior energetically yells from the back of the lion that turns its head turns backward with flared ears. Cast from clay, the sculpture is richly polychromed in colors that recall the glazes of 7th-8th century Tang Dynasty tomb ceramics. The sculpture is mounted on a plexiglass stand.
Dimensions: W. 16 " H. 13 1/2"
Condition: Lion's rear legs are broken.