Han Dynasty Style Pottery Roof Eave Tile Fragment

Western Han Dynasty, c. 206 BC – 220 AD, China

A fascinating circular pottery roof tile fragment, finely molded with a traditional dragon motif — an enduring emblem of strength and auspicious power in ancient China. Possibly dating to the Han period, this tile exemplifies the artistic and architectural sophistication achieved during one of China’s most celebrated dynasties.

Han tiles (wadang) enjoyed a high reputation in antiquity, their use reaching a peak during the Western Han Dynasty. By solving the architectural challenge of roof waterproofing, they elevated Chinese buildings from simple thatched constructions to complex, enduring structures of clay and wood. These decorated eave tiles were positioned at the ends of roof rows, protecting edges while serving as striking ornamental elements.

The design likely draws inspiration from the Four Mythical Creatures — the Azure Dragon of the East, the White Tiger of the West, the Vermilion Bird of the South, and the Black Tortoise of the North — each representing a cardinal direction, season, and cosmic force.

An evocative relic of early Chinese architecture, this piece embodies the balance between functionality, artistry, and symbolism that defined Han craftsmanship.

Good condition. Surface wear, chip and abrasions consistent with age, with areas of encrusted patina and rich earthen deposits across the surface. Size approx. 17,8cm x 17,7cm x 1,8cm.

Provenance: Swedish private collection.

For a similar examples see: 

Eave tile (fragment), Royal Ontario Museum, Accession Number: 922.20.330 (https://collections.rom.on.ca/objects/322429/eave-tile-fragment?ctx=2dc650a934f86ed2090d1b8e203a53e585aca2bb&idx=49)

Roof tile end with dragon, 206 BCE–9 CE, Minneapolis Institute of Arts, Accession Number: 2001.154.10 (https://collections.artsmia.org/art/51836/roof-tile-end-with-dragon-china)

Roof Tile End,  The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession Number: 18.56.31 (https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/49529)