http://collection.shangrilahawaii.org/internal/media/dispatcher/57392/fullPolychrome Tile Panel with Birds and Leopards17th century45 5/8 x 19 1/4 in. (115.9 x 48.9 cm)Ceramic, polychrome pigments48.85.11This panel is composed of ceramic tiles, painted with colorful, animated depictions of the natural world. A central cypress tree is brimming with perched birds and blooming plants. Tigers spring from leafy foliage, and eagles soar among wisps of Chinese-style clouds.
Depictions of flora and fauna on yellow, white, or green ground are typical of the Safavid period (1501–1722 CE) when both religious and secular buildings were clad in brightly colored ceramic tile. During the Safavid period, Chinese porcelains were highly valued, and motifs inspired by Ming porcelain, such as stylized cloud bands and more naturalistic floral motifs, appeared in Safavid architectural design.Ceramics48.9000000000115.90000000001649946032