Demon and snake
Description
Green-glazed square tile molded from reddish earthenware in high relief against a plain background with molded cloud motifs and framed by a raised rim. A trousered, prancing, bearded monster figure with gaping mouth of fangs and teeth, extended tongue, bulging eyes, pointed ears, a single horn atop its head, flaring porcine nostrils, three-taloned hands and feet, flame-like wings on its shoulders, and a corpulent belly, grasps a scaly snake in its right hand. The monster faces left and is swept along by the background cloud motifs, while the open-mouthed snake looks back in the other direction. White pigment is found on the demon's eyes, horn, and fangs. Cracks at upper and lower right indicate repairs. Sections of the rim have been reattached and gaps are plugged with filler (evident from sides).
Published References & Reproductions
Kaikodo Journal (Autumn 1996), no. 74b.
Rita Reif, "As Serene as a Teahouse in Kyoto," New York Times (Sunday, Oct. 13, 1996), H45.
