Terracotta plaque engraved with animals, China Han dynasty

Large gray terracotta tombstone. The decoration is partly stamped and partly carved. In the center, a tiger is surrounded by two horses and eleven birds. There must be strong symbolism in this scene.The edges and sides are decorated with a frieze of diamonds. The plaque was glued in Europe onto a sturdy iron frame for hanging. Although slightly rusted, the frame is solid and can still function. The designs are full of life, particularly the horses. Chinese work, circa year zero. Good condition, no restoration, traces of ochre and white pigment remain in the recesses. 136mm x 42mm x 55mm. The Cernuschi Museum in Paris exhibited a series of Han dynasty tombstones in 2012; one of them featured a similar tiger, and another the same lozenge pattern.