Tomb guardian in form of a civil official

Tomb guardian in form of a civil official

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

During the Joseon dynasty in Korea, the commemoration of ancestors through ritual took on a new significance. Stone sculptures of human figures and animals were placed around grave mounds to honor and guard the tomb. This example was one of a pair. The figure wears the robe and hat of a civil official. He holds an audience tablet, lifted with both hands and held below his chin. This pose, along with his slightly hunched shoulders, indicates respect and humility.

Asian Art

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Tomb guardian in form of a civil officialTomb guardian in form of a civil officialTomb guardian in form of a civil officialTomb guardian in form of a civil officialTomb guardian in form of a civil official

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Each of the many civilizations of Asia is represented by outstanding works, providing an unrivaled experience of the artistic traditions of nearly half the world.