Rectangular Wellhead

Han dynasty (206 B.C.–A.D. 220), 1st century B.C./A.D.

China

The slits cut into opposite sides of this wellhead (a structure that covers a well) were originally fitted with beams to support the roof. The sides visible here depict creatures of this world and the hereafter: a tiger, a camel, and an archer (perhaps an immortal) aiming at a dragon. The back is molded with a dragon and tiger.

Status: On View, Gallery 133
Department: Arts of Asia

Title: Rectangular Wellhead
Place: China (Artist's nationality)
Date: Made 99 BCE–99 CE
Medium: Gray earthenware with molded decoration
Dimensions: 24 × 16.5 × 12 cm (9 7/16 × 6 1/2 × 4 3/4 in.)
Credit Line: Gift of Pauline Palmer Wood
Reference Number: 1972.1263
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