Asian Art
Candlestand in the Shape of a Chimera Bixie
Permanent ExhibitionCeramics
Details
- Author / creator
- China, Western Jin dynasty (265-316 CE)
- Object type
- Ceramics
- Date or period
- 265–316 CE
- Dimensions summary
- Overall: 8.3 cm
- Maker or workshop
- China, Western Jin dynasty (265-316 CE)
- Period / style
- Jin dynasty period
- Place of origin
- China
- Acquisition method
- Purchase
- Credit line
- Purchased with the National Heritage Memorial Fund, 1983
About this object
The candlestand in the shape of a chimera or bixie (a fantastical hybrid creature that was believed to ward off evil spirits) was molded in two parts. Incisions on both sides of the feline body suggest wings. Stone bixie placed in front of tomb entrances are prominent among the Six Dynasties kings buried in Nanjing. Candlestands in the form of chimera were found in tombs but may have been used in daily life too.
Materials and technique
Glazed stoneware with molded and incised decoration, Yue ware
