This object is a haniwa (lit. "clay ring"), a type of funerary article made during the Kofun era (300-552). Many kinds of haniwa have been found, including both simple clay cylinders and more elaborate forms, such as human figures, houses, boats, and many kinds of animals. This elaborate example represents a male warrior, about four feet tall, elevated on a high, cylindrical base. Like other haniwa, it was constructed of clay, using the coil method. The small, tubular arms were made separately and attached at the shoulder.

Concepts

samurai

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Additional Tags

figurative sculpture, asian art museum, haniwa in the form of a warrior, khan academy, art of japan, funerary objects, soldier wears a hip-length tunic, billowing trousers

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Classroom Considerations

• Knovation Readability Score: 3 (1 low difficulty, 5 high difficulty)