Lot 239 email save

Rare and Spectacular Chinese Tile Works Panel

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Rare and Spectacular Chinese Tile Works Panel, from an exterior wall, Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the thick tile works panel in two parts modeled in high relief depicting four haloed arhats in monk's robes, each perched on a spray of clouds, one with a begging bowl, one with a spirit tablet, one with a ruyi scepter and one with hands clasped in prayer, all against a green ground with wispy clouds in blue at the top, now mounted on a black ground and presented in a giltwood frame, the lower right hand corner with calligraphic inscription, h. 37", w. 29". This type of plaque was made in sections for insertion into garden walls and spirit screens. Due to the religious representations in the current example, it was most certainly made for a garden wall in a temple. The materials and glazes in the plaques are the same as used in roof tiles and are, therefore, able to withstand the natural elements for extended centuries.

Overall very good condition - scattered minor losses and minor repairs, a few with overpainting. In general, the condition is unusually fine for a piece of this age and having been exposed to the elements. The colors, as with many roof tiles, are strong. There is some crackling to the glaze which is consistent with age and exposure. The inscription in the lower right corner lists contributors who donated money for the construction of the wall. Overall an exciting and unusual lot.

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