The Guardian Figurine, created in China in the early 700s during the Tang Dynasty, is an amazing example of the craftsmanship of the time. This ceramic sculpture was made of earthenware and covered with a lead glaze, complemented by ink and gold.
One of the distinguishing features of the figurine is the lifelike depiction of the curled fingers of the right hand and the curve of the back of the guardian. These details are executed with great precision. However, the face of the guardian has exaggerated features, creating a fierce look. This artistic stylization was typical of the time and served to express the emotional intensity of the character.
During the Tang Dynasty, Chinese craftsmen reached a high level of ceramic production technology. They knew how to control the temperature and atmosphere in the kilns, which allowed them to create products with an even and shiny finish. Lead glaze gave the earthenware a special smoothness and brightness.
Guardian figurines were important elements of Chinese art and culture. They symbolized protection and guardianship, were often installed in tombs and on altars, and served to ward off evil spirits. The Guardian from the collection of the Indianapolis Museum of Art is an example of this type of artifact.
This Guardian figurine is in excellent condition and is part of the collection of the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Places, whose purpose was to inform the public about the visual arts and provide art education. Today, it is the eighth largest art museum in the United States, with a permanent collection of more than 54,000 works from around the world.
Source: discovernewfields.org
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