**First Time At Auction**

East Asia, China, Ming Dynasty, ca. 1368 to 1644 CE. A grey terracotta roof tile cap, mold-made to have a raised, striated edge and an interior relief image that appears to be a pixiu (bixie). This figure - a dragon/lion hybrid, auspicious and protective -stares out at the viewer, its muscular body and crested head well-detailed. Around him is a field of floral and minaret-style motifs. Size: 5.45" W x 0.75" H (13.8 cm x 1.9 cm)

According to Chinese tradition, roofs are understood to be locii of communication between the living and the spiritual realms. As a consequence, they were historically decorated to ward off evil and act as a magnet for good fortune and blessings.

Provenance: private Florida, USA collection

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#126533

A few tiny chips around the edges, otherwise in excellent condition. Nice details.