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China

Vessel in Form of a Bird

Tang dynasty (618–907), first half of 8th century
Earthenware with three-color (sancai) lead glazes

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● On view now — Gallery 131

Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · verified July 2026

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FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

This bird-shaped clay vessel features naturalistic wing and tail feathers but decorative scrollwork along the neck and body. It is painted with lead-based three-color (sancai) glazes that were commonly used during the Tang dynasty. The bird may be either a mandarin duck or a wild goose; both traditionally symbolized peace, prosperity, and marital love.

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