UNICORN, TOMB PROTECTIVE ANIMAL

Description Small statuettes depicting unicorns often occur in tombs from the Han dynasty, modeled in bronze, terracotta or wood. They purpose was to defend the deceased and the tomb from demon attacks, and are always depicted charging. This specimen presents equine features and fits fully into this typical trend of the period. The body and head are made from a single block of roughly hewn wood. In addition to the animal's eyes and nostrls, the red-painted penis and testicles are highlighted. The surface of the sculpture is painted with rather broad strokes and lines in black, white and red. The removable horn and tail are thin wooden plates inserted into special grooves on the head and rump.