Tomb Guardian Figures
Title:Tomb Guardian Figures
Artist:Artist Unknown
Date:early 6th century
Creation Place:Asia, China
Credit Line:The William Hood Dunwoody Fund
Accession Number:31.117.1
These guardian figures exhibit the classic elements of the mature Northern Wei style (386-584) including a rigid frontal pose, elongated torso and emphasis on lineal drapery patterns. The facial features are less stylized, however. With active and intent expressions, the heads turn, in contrast to the stiff flat bodies. These figures were unearthed along with two others at the entrance of a Northern Wei tomb in Southern Honan province. The four figures were likely placed against a wall where they functioned as guardians at the tomb door.