Cizhou kiln tiger-shaped pillow, Jin Dynasty (1115-1234), Guanfu Museum, Shanghai.

This porcelain pillow features the image of a crouching tiger, a popular style in the Jin Dynasty. It is said that the nobles of the Jin Dynasty pursued the luxurious life of "dragon bed and tiger pillow". The dragon bed has not yet been found in kind, so it is currently doubtful. However, tiger pillows appear in large numbers, especially in Shanxi, which is consistent with the legend. The vivid image of the Crouching Tiger is due to the careful observation of the ancients who grasped the charm of the tiger. The head is round and broad, the ears are short, the mouth is slightly open to reveal sharp tiger teeth, and the eyes are straight, bright, and not angry. The front paws meet, the hind paws meet, and the tail is coiled. It shows both the majesty of the tiger and the naivety of the tiger that is subjectively shaped by people. The tiger stripes are expressed with lines of varying thickness, and the brushstrokes are delicate and smooth. With just a few strokes, the dynamic and gorgeous beauty of nature is perfectly outlined. The pillow is made of a tiger's back, and the pillow is decorated with folded flowers. Although it has nothing to do with the theme of the vessel, it is still fresh and natural, indicating a kind of folk cultural interest. From the whole to the details, it is perfect, with excellent production technology, bright colors and complete preservation.