It was believed that theirs large ears allowed them to hear sounds from all directions, the wings made them fly, the hoofed feet helped them race in the wild. It was meant that they could travel swiftly and freely in the universe in order to protect the soul of the dead.

Tomb guardians were placed in ancient tombs to guard against evil, and protect the soul of the dead to ascend to heaven without obstruction.

Age: China, Tang Dynasty, circa A.D. 618-907
Measurement: Height 37 C.M. / Width 23.8 C.M.
Condition: Well-preserved old burial condition overall with some amount of soil adherings (some abrasions and wearings on the piece due to the long burial time underground).