Roof tile
14th–17th century
Zoomorphic ornaments were generally placed at the front of a roof's main ridge. This special figure, mounted on a dragon, is also part of a series that covers the entire length of the ridge. Besides adorning the roof of a building, the figures are also believed to bring good fortune to the occupants.
Ceramic tile with low-fired lead glaze
30 x 31 x 8 1/2in. (76.2 x 78.7 x 21.6cm)
Gift of Henry and Mary Ann James, in honor of the 75th Anniversary of the Seattle Art Museum
2007.24
Photo: Susan Cole