17th C. Chinese Glazed Pottery Vaisravana Roof Tile

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Fine Antiquities, Asian, Ethno, Fine Art

By Artemis Fine Arts

May 1, 2025

Set Reminder 2025-05-01 10:00:00 2025-05-01 10:00:00 America/New_York Bidsquare Bidsquare : Fine Antiquities, Asian, Ethno, Fine Art https://www.bidsquare.com/auctions/artemis-gallery/fine-antiquities-asian-ethno-fine-art-19334
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• Lot Description
  East Asia, China, late Ming to early Qing Dynasty, ca. 17th to 18th century CE. Behold Vaisravana, the majestic Heavenly King of the North, a 17th-century Chinese pottery roof tile guardian. This solid and fleshy sculpture is remarkable for its sophistication, bright colors, and well-preserved state. His form is a symphony of symbolic iconography, from the regal bearing that embodies his dominion over wealth and protection to the umbrella he firmly clutches, a potent emblem of his power to control the weather and ward off evil influences. Notably, his gaze is intensified by inlaid stone eyes, lending an otherworldly focus and enhancing his commanding command, granting the stern, three-dimensional image a subtle sense of sentience. The glaze, a harmonious blend of yellow and green, traditional hues associated with this powerful deity, further enriches the intricate details of his armor, each scale and flourish meticulously sculpted. Size: 12.3" L x 17.3" W x 35.5" H (31.2 cm x 43.9 cm x 90.2 cm)
  
  In 17th and 18th century China, Vaisravana, also known as Duowen Tianwang, held a significant position as one of the Four Heavenly Kings within Chinese Buddhism. Revered as the Guardian of the North and a protector of Buddhist teachings, his image was commonly found in temple halls, often depicted as a formidable warrior clad in armor and holding a pagoda and a trident. Beyond his role as a directional guardian, Vaisravana was also associated with wealth and prosperity, a connection stemming from his Hindu origins as Kubera. This multifaceted deity was not merely a static figure in temples but actively integrated into the religious landscape, embodying both martial prowess for protection and the bestowal of material well-being for devotees during the Qing Dynasty. His continued presence in art and religious practice during this period underscores his enduring importance in Chinese Buddhist culture.
  
  Chinese figural roof tiles, a hallmark of traditional Chinese architecture for centuries, are more than mere roofing materials. These ornate tiles, frequently made of glazed earthenware, adorned the roofs of significant structures such as palaces, temples, and government buildings. While serving the practical purpose of shielding buildings from the weather, they also conveyed profound symbolic meaning. The figures, often depicting mythical creatures like dragons and lions, as well as deities, were believed to repel evil spirits and attract good fortune, prosperity, and protection. The intricate craftsmanship and artistry of these tiles showcased the advanced skills and artistic talent present in ancient Chinese architecture and ceramics.
  
  A similar pottery roof tile depicting Virupaksha, the Guardian King of the West, can be found in the Rubin Museum under object number C2010.10.
  
  Provenance: private Los Angeles, California, USA collection
  
  All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
  
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  SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)
  
  PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
  
  #193427

  Condition

  Missing umbrella handle. One leg has been professionally repaired with restoration over break lines. Some nicks, abrasions, and stable hairline fissures in areas, but, otherwise, excellent overall presentation with nice preservation of glaze and impressive detail. Patina to interior and craquelure to glaze in areas.
• Shipping Info

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