Chinese Sancai Glazed Warrior Roof Ridge Tile, Ming Dynasty, 17th Century, China

A fantastic pair of large Chinese tileworks sancai glazed Buddhistic lions and attendants, late Ming Dynasty, first half of the 17th century, Shanxi, China. Presented on custom 20th century wood and lacquer table-form stands. This pair of lions and attendants portray Buddhist lions...

A decidingly charming Chinese polychromed and gilt cast bronze figure of Nanhai Guanyin, Guanyin of the South Sea, Ming Dynasty, 16th/17th century, China. Guanyin, the bodhisattva of compassion, is portrayed here as a beatific figure seated upon a raised lotus pedestal over waves. Guanyin is dressed in heavy robes, and wears an elaborate headdress. The small figure of Amitabha Buddha in the headdress positively identifies this figure as Guanyin. Guanyin rests one hand in his lap, holding a cup of pure water said to be able to alleviate all suffering. His other hand is raised, holding a willow branch which is used to sprinkle the healing waters. The two lotus blossoms to either side of Guanyin would originally have supported figures of the acolytes...

An attractive carved wood figure of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, known as Guanyin in China, late Ming Dynasty, early 17th century, China. Guanyi...

Chinese late Ming dynasty bronze figure of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, also known as Guanyin (Quan Yin, Kwan Yin, Kuan Yin), 17th century, China  The figure well cast in two ...

Ming Dynasty stone foo dog from the revered Beijing Summer Palace, dating back to the end of the 17th century. This magnificent sculpture depicts a powerful lion, imbued with the myt...

This is a rare Chinese Ming Dynasty bronze Fu Dog figural bronze tripod lidded censer used for incense. It has a Fu Dog or Qilin figural top lid with superbly carved details. The Fu ...

A remarkable pair of large Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) earthenware Imperial roof decorations - ornamental architectural terracotta roof tile beasts. 15th/16th century or earlier, Northern China, most likely Forbidden City, Dongcheng District, Beijing, figural pottery modeled as mythical qilin (foo dog / guardian lion), the crouching beast with legs back and flaming body depicted ready to pounce. Retaining partial remnants of the red wax export seal, indicating they are authentic and were legally exported out of the country. Dimensions: (approx) Largest: 18" Tall, 19" Wide, 8" Deep History: Chinese roof tiles have been a part of Chinese architecture for over 2,000 years. These unique and beautifully crafted tiles have become an integral part of traditional Chinese culture, and have gained international recognition for their beauty and cultural significance. In this article, we will explore the different types of Chinese roof tiles, their construction, cultural significance, preservation and restoration techniques, and modern uses. Chinese imperial roof decorations or roof charms or roof-figures (Chinese: 檐獸/檐兽; pinyin: yán shòu) or "walking beasts" (Chinese: 走獸/走兽; pinyin: zǒu shòu) or "crouching beasts" (Chinese: 蹲獸/蹲兽; pinyin: Dūn shòu) were statutes placed along the ridge line of official buildings of the Chinese empire. Only official buildings (palaces, government buildings, and some temples) were permitted to use such roof decorations. Occasionally arranged in an outward marching procession with various different examples, the number and type indicating the importance of the duties performed within the building or within the courtyard protected by a gate. With a maximum number of nine, the mythical beast was one of the highest in rank, thus modeled set to pounce upon the man and lower ranking creatures, ready to devour them should they stray from performing their duties with faithfulness and rectitude The Design and Construction of Chinese Roofs: The roof design is an important aspect of Chinese architecture, with each component of the roof playing a specific role. Chinese roof tiles fit into the overall design of the roof and are placed on top of wooden supports called purlins. The interlocking system of Chinese roof tiles ensures that they stay in place and prevent leaks. Ridge tiles...

An Important Chinese Carved Wood Figure of Guanyin, Ming Dynasty, 17th Century Description: A dignified portrayal of the bodhisattva, respl...