Returned to lender The Met accepts temporary loans of art both for short-term exhibitions and for long-term display in its galleries.
Lamp in the Shape of a Ram
Western Han dynasty (206 BCE–9 CE)
Not on view
The ram, the word for which in Chinese is pronunced similarly to the one for “auspicious,” was a common symbol of luck. This “golden ram” is a paean to Han ingenuity. Via a hinge on its neck, the ram’s back opens for use as an oil receptacle (see ill.), and a spout ensures that leftover fuel flows back into the hollow body. This exceptional piece accords with the appreciation of a gold ram lamp expressed in a Han poem: A person of virtue is diligent in work, and only feels the day is too short. / A golden ram lamp is lit up, extending the daylight.
This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.
This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.
