Vessel in Form of a Bird
Tang dynasty (618–907), first half of 8th century
Medium
Earthenware with three-color (sancai) lead glazes
Dimensions
H.: 34.7 cm (13 11/16 in.)
Classification
vessel
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
105595
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
This bird-shaped clay vessel features naturalistic wing and tail feathers but decorative scrollwork along the neck and body. It is painted with lead-based three-color (sancai) glazes that were commonly used during the Tang dynasty. The bird may be either a mandarin duck or a wild goose; both traditionally symbolized peace, prosperity, and marital love.
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...