**This item is heavy/oversized and will require 3rd party shipping. Please inquire about shipping cost prior to bidding.**

East Asia, China, Qing Dynasty, ca. 18th to 19th century CE. A pair of fantastical and large pottery roof dragons, glazed in sancai green and yellow hues on both sides, and comprised of 4 pieces with tenon holes and grooves for mounting to the end of a roof ridge known as a "chiwen." The gaping mouths would have faced inward as if biting the ridge, they were attached to. These were decorative roof elements, the striking colors of the sancai glaze enabled it to be seen from a distance, while the artist's attention to detail make close viewing just as rewarding! Dragons have traditionally been associated with power over rainfall, lightning, and typhoons- ensuring the wooden buildings that were susceptible to fires were protected. Glazed chiwen were used for temples, officials' houses, and palaces. Size of head & tail together; 23" L x 8" W x 33" H (58.4 cm x 20.3 cm x 83.8 cm); head section: 22" L x 8" W x 14" H (55.9 cm x 20.3 cm x 35.6 cm); tail section: 23" L x 7" W x 17" H (58.4 cm x 17.8 cm x 43.2 cm)

Please note that this item is heavy/oversized. Please inquire about shipping prior to bidding.

This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full printed and bound report will accompany the item upon purchase.

Provenance: private Vero Beach, Florida, USA collection, acquired before 2003

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#177239

Areas of chips and losses to the projecting, high pointed areas on all 4 pieces, such as teeth, manes, and scales. Stable pressure fissures radiating from openings and bases. Some areas of mineral deposits amd Sharp details and nice coloration. Overall great condition for age and exposure to elements. Tl hole on the base and under the snout of the dragon head.