East Asia, China, Ming Dynasty, ca. 1368 to 1644 CE. A glazed, earthenware ornamental roof tile featuring a proud figure who dons turquoise, golden ochre, and deep purple hued vestments and is mounted upon a turquoise blue horse who seems to have a carrot-shaped ornament suspended from his reins that falls over his chest. Below the horse's belly is a columnar support decorated with a cloud formation on each side. According to Chinese tradition, roofs are understood to be loci of communication between the living and the spiritual realms. As a consequence, the ancients decorated them to ward off evil and act as a magnet for good fortune and blessings. A fine example with gorgeous hues. Size: 14.25" L x 17.25" H (36.2 cm x 43.8 cm)

This piece was featured in Sotheby’s Los Angeles, March 05, 1981, Fine Oriental Works of Art, lot 1554. The catalogue includes an illustration and the following accompanying description, "The horse in galloping attitude supported by a central column in the form of a cloud resting on the domed tile, the figure wearing armour with hands pierced to hold the reins, face with fierce expression, glazed in purple, ochre, and turquoise with flesh details in cream, cracked. Height 17 1/4 inches (43.8 cm.)

Provenance: private Texas, USA collection; ex-Sotheby’s, Los Angeles, March 05, 1981, Fine Oriental Works of Art, lot 1554

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#137841

Losses to tips of horse's ears, peripheries of headdress over man's shoulders, and decorative circular ornaments over his thighs. A few scuffs to glaze as shown. Domed tile has been repaired from three pieces. Reins once held in his hands are missing.