A Very Rare and Large Roof End-Tile –Gray Stoneware
Korea, Unified Silla Dynasty or early Koryo dynasty,
9th -11th Century
This monster roof end tile was typically made for a temple.
As a Korean this type of monster roof end-tile is a very rare in beauty of style and technical excellence. Korean old temple tiles remain unsurpassed and rival those made in China and Japan.
** Tiles with monster masks were mounted on the ends
of rafters and were supposed to ward off evil spirits. This type of monster mask end-tile apparently came into vogue during the Three Kingdoms period.
By the Unified Silla, such tiles demonstrate a flair for pictorial invention and
imaginative stylistic variations.-- *** Reference: 5000 years of Korean Art.
It is in fine condition. Measures 11”x11’x1 ½”.