Amphora with Three Dragon-Shaped Handles

China

Chinese (culture or style)ceramicsasian art

Date

Tang dynasty (618–907), 8th century

Medium

Stoneware with yellowish-white glaze

Dimensions

35.9 × 18.4 cm (14 1/8 × 7 1/4 in.); Diam.: 18.4 cm (7 1/4 in.)

Museum

Art Institute of Chicago

Location

Chicago, IL

Credit

Dr. Edith B. Farnsworth Collection

The dragon, with a scaly serpentine body, large whiskered head, and feet with sharp claws, is a supernatural creature that represents strength and goodness. The appearance of the dragon is considered a sign of good luck. Early depictions of the dragon are associated with water and rain, and are symbols of fertility and fecundity. The dragon came to represent the emperor, imperial power, and authority.

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