Sui Glazed Terracotta Spirit Guardian

Originating during the Six Dynasties period (222-589 A.D.), these types of figures are known as spirit guardians. A pair of such figures always stood guard at the tombs of Chinese rulers in order to ward off potential robbers or evil spirits in the next world that might try to infiltrate the tomb. This spirit guardian sculpture is a general type of Chinese art known as mingqi. Mingqi were any variety of objects specifically created for interment in the tombs of elite individuals in order to provide for their afterlife, in this case, to provide eternal protection and security. This figure is a composite creature composed of both animal and human traits, including a feline body, horse legs, a lizard-like spine, and the bearded face of a man. Both in regards to its original warding function and its appearance, this spirit guardian is comparable to the sphinx of Ancient Egypt, albeit on a much more intimate scale. The terracotta has been covered with a rich crème-colored glaze of a type that the Sui Dynasty has become famed for. The work was then highlighted by the application of red and black pigments, adding detail to the face and body, such as the eyes, red lips, black beard, and the stripes that decorate the legs and breast, as if the artist was imitating the coat of a tiger. Although this sculpture was intended to repel us, its fascinating history and astounding beauty instead attracts our attention and admiration.