Tiger and bamboo, large plate
伊万里竹虎図 大皿
(mid 19th century)
Medium
porcelain, gilt, enamel (Imari ware)
Measurements
6.5 × 47.9 cm diameter
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased with funds donated by Pauline Gandel, 2018
Gallery location
Level 1, NGV International
About this work
Adorning this large Japanese plate is a tiger, an animal that holds a significant position in Japanese culture – despite not being native to the country. One of the twelve animals of the Asian zodiac, the tiger symbolises strength and protection. In Japanese art and design, tigers often have cat-like features, as cats were frequently used as models.
Artwork Details
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