molded in relief, the face of a snarling beast with wide eyes, flared nostrils and a pierced mouth revealing fangs, all framed within a beaded border, wood frame (2)

Parke-Bernet Galleries New York, 13th-14th April 1955, lot 160.

There are chips to the edges and there is extensive wear to the surface.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This type of tile was most likely used as decoration for a Buddhist shrine.  For a Tang dynasty example in the British Museum see William Watson, Tang and Liao Ceramics, London 1984, pp. 50-51. A very similar decoration is applied to the side of a Northern Qi Dynasty vessel and cover in the Metropolitan Museum, New York and illustrated in Suzanne G. Valenstein, Cultural Convergence in the Northern Qi Period,  A Flamboyant Chinese Ceramic Container, New York, 2007, pp. 91-92.