Artwork Page for Section of a Sarcophagus Foundation or Epitaph Stone

Details / Information for Section of a Sarcophagus Foundation or Epitaph Stone

Section of a Sarcophagus Foundation or Epitaph Stone

late 600s–early 700s

China, Tang dynasty

(618–907)
Medium
limestone with carved decoration
Measurements
Overall: 33 x 17.8 cm (13 x 7 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Severance and Greta Millikin 1959.184
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Did You Know?

A qilin, an elephant, and a chimera bound through coiling foliate and floral motifs in each cartouche.

Description

This slab may have come from either the foundation of a house-shaped coffin or an epitaph stone that was inscribed with a dedication to the deceased. The combination of realistic and imaginary animals is typical of Tang funerary art.
A horizontal limestone sculpture has a dark gray surface and a jagged lower edge. Three panels contain white-lined carvings of animals amidst swirling vine patterns. From left to right, a spotted deer-like creature runs, an elephant stands wearing a saddle cloth, and a winged animal faces our left. These fine motifs contrast with the dark stone, creating a dense decorative sequence across the rectangular surface.

Section of a Sarcophagus Foundation or Epitaph Stone

late 600s–early 700s

China, Tang dynasty (618–907)

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