Roof-end tile 8th-10th century

These roof-end tiles, of unknown origin, are made of earthenware. They are decorated with a floral motif which speaks to the cultural fascination with nature in many societies. The flower may seem like a universal symbol, but we must always remember that art carries different meanings depending on where and when it was made. In many parts of Asia, the lotus is a sacred flower associated with spiritual enlightenment. If these tiles came from a Buddhist temple, for instance, the flower might have been intended to create a peaceful atmosphere for worshipers. The production of the tiles themselves could also tell us something about the society that made them. Were they mass-produced in a factory, or were they carefully crafted by individual artisans? The answers to such questions can be found in archaeology and historical records of ceramics production. By studying art through a lens of social and institutional context, we can gain a deeper appreciation of its role in shaping culture and society.