CHINESE HARDSTONE QILING FIGURES

Undated
The first figure is crafted from fine hardstone material, and depicts the qilin with its head raised and jaws open, revealing a glimpse of its teeth. The creature's body is elegantly curved, assuming a seated posture with its legs neatly folded beneath it. Notably, the qilin's tail gracefully coils down its body, adding a sense of fluidity to the composition. A distinctive feature of this figure is the horn located behind the qilin's back, symbolizing its mythical attributes and otherworldly nature. Furthermore, a luxuriant beard emerges from the creature's lower jaw, extending all the way down to its chest, lending it an air of wisdom and nobility. The qilin, an iconic creature in Chinese mythology, embodies various symbolic meanings. Often associated with benevolence, righteousness, and prosperity, the qilin is revered as a bringer of good fortune and an auspicious creature. It is believed to possess the ability to discern virtuous individuals and protect them from harm. It also represents harmony and balance, embodying the ideal union of contrasting forces. The other figure is a hardstone lion and cub. Carved from a green stone material, the lion's features are expertly rendered with great attention to detail. With its head held high, the lion's open mouth reveals teeth, while its eyes are delicately outlined, capturing a sense of alertness and intensity. The lion's ears are finely crafted, complementing the incised mane that adds a touch of majesty to the overall composition. Sitting in a pose that emphasizes its chubby body, the lion exudes a sense of regal presence. A notable addition to this exquisite sculpture is the inclusion of a playful cub resting upon the lion's back. This small but significant detail adds an element of tenderness and affection to the piece. The cub is depicted with great care, exhibiting a sense of innocence and youthful energy. The artist's choice to position the lion's thick tail in three tufts around its hindquarter adds further intricacy and dynamism to the composition.
Size: L:80mm / W:115mm ; 210g/ L:65mm / W:85mm ; 450g
Provenance: UK private collection; formerly acquired in the early 1990s in Hong Kong.
Estimate: GBP 40 - 60