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Lion-shaped vessel
Lion-shaped vessel

Lion-shaped vessel

Place of OriginZhejiang province, China
Dateapprox. 300-500
DynastyThree Kingdoms period (221-265) or Northern and Southern Dynasties period (386-589)
MaterialsHigh-fired ceramic with molded and incised decoration and greenish glaze
DimensionsH. 3 1/2 in x W. 5 3/8 in, H. 8.9 cm x W. 13.7 cm
Credit LineThe Avery Brundage Collection
Object numberB60P2066
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsCeramics
On View
Not on view
More Information
Determining the name and function of these ceramic lion-shaped vessels has been a subject of consistent argument among scholars. The term bixie, referring to a candle holder used to exorcise evil when lighted in the tomb, is common in archaeological reports. Such celadon vessels have been unearthed from tombs ranging from the middle third through late fifth centuries in Zhejiang, Jiangxi, Jiangsu, Hunan, Shandong, and even as far south as northern Hebei. The glaze seen here belongs to the superior yue stage (KG 1985.3: pl. 4; CGK Zenshu 1981 vol. IV: 74).