Phoenix Headed Ewer with Handle, Equestrian Archer and Flying Phoenix Motifs

China

Tang dynasty (618-906), About 720

The horseman turning back over his shoulder to shoot his bow while galloping at full speed is a design that came from the Persian Empire and was a popular motif throughout Central Asia and China for hundreds of years. The other side of this ewer is decorated with a phoenix bird, the sign of rebirth and regeneration, perfect for a tomb object.

  • Titles Phoenix Headed Ewer with Handle, Equestrian Archer and Flying Phoenix Motifs (Descriptive)
  • Artist China
  • Medium Three-color glazed earthenware, sancai ware
  • Dimensions 12 1/2 x 5 1/4 x 5 in. (31.8 x 13.3 x 12.7 cm)
  • Credit Line Collection of the Art Fund, Inc. at the Birmingham Museum of Art; Purchase with funds provided by Helen Hudgens, Dr. and Mrs. Jack Geer, and the Birmingham Asian Art Society, AFI.3.2005
  • Work Type ewer
  • Classification Containers
  • On View