Tang Dynasty Pottery Miniature Seated Lion Water Dropper

Tang dynasty, 618-907 AD, China

This absolutely charming miniature lion water dropper, handcrafted during the golden age of China’s Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), exemplifies the fine artistry of this iconic period. The stylized lion, seated on its haunches with forelegs extended and firmly planted on an integral rectangular platform base, commands attention with its fierce open-mouthed roar. Its thick, flowing mane extends down its powerfully arched back, while a short, curled beard accentuates the muscular chest, and a long, gracefully curled tail adds to its majestic presence.

Molded from white clay and covered with a luxurious dark chocolate brown iron glaze, this water dropper captures the essence of Tang Dynasty pottery, which is celebrated for its mingqi or "spirit goods." These tomb figures symbolized status and served to guard the deceased in the afterlife. Each figure, like this lion, was meticulously crafted and arranged within tombs, with its size and number reflecting the rank of the departed.

In good condition. Age-related wear and abrasion. Glazing flaws and fritting. Rich encrusted earthen deposits. Size approx. 7,0cm x 3,5cm x 3,0cm. 

Provenance: Swedish private collection.

For a bit similar example see:

Lion, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession Number: 30.76.62 (https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/62935)

References and further reading:

Gilded Dragons: Buried Treasures from China’s Golden Ages, The British Museum, ed. Carol Michaelson, 1999.

Immortality of the Spirit: Chinese Funerary Art from the Han and Tang Dynasties Exhibition Catalogue, Jill J. Deupi, Ive Covaci & Leopold Swergold, Immortality of the Spirit - Ephemera. 1, Fairfield University, 2012. (https://digitalcommons.fairfield.edu/immortality_ephemera/1)

Arts of the Tang Court, Patricia Eichenbaum Karetzky, Hong Kong; New York: Oxford University Press, 1996.

The Art of the Yellow Springs: Understanding Chinese Tombs, Wu Hung, London: Reaktion Books, 2011.