Ming Dynasty Pottery Roof Tile End Fragment with Taotie Mask baskets the island played a pivotal

the island played a pivotal role in the exchange of goods

The vibrant polychrome hues of red

relatively light with a heavy tapered blade

Their weavers specialized in delicate gauze work and intricate geometric and pictorial designs

In southern Shanxi Province

Ming Dynasty Pottery Roof Tile End Fragment with Taotie Mask baskets the island played a pivotalMing Dynasty, c. 15501644 AD, China A fascinating unglazed circular high fired earthenware roof tile end, known as a wadang, with its tubular extension now partially lost to time. Formed from a light grey fabric with fine white inclusions, the piece exhibits excellent preservation of detail and craftsmanship. The flat front is decorated in high relief with a ferocious taotie mask a stylized monster face featuring bulging eyes beneath pronounced brows,