Aspire Auctions

March 2004 Fine Art & Antiques Auction

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495. A Glazed Qilin, c. Ching Dynasty, 1736-1821

This unique figure related to the Chinese mythological creature is a combination of of many animals. The overall body is red glaze with fine crackelure. Highlights on legs and face, beard and tail in yellow glaze. The dragon has a black beard and hooves, and yellow glazed horns. No visible markings or signatures. This piece measures apprx 11" H x 12"L x 5" W. Includes certificate of antiquity from Hong Kong, inspected in 1978.

Sometimes called the Chinese unicorn, the qilin is an auspicious creature with the head of a dragon, the body of a deer, the tail of an ox, horse's hooves and a single horn. The qilin (also referred to as "kylin," or "kirin" in Japan) is considered to be one of the four supernatural creatures and is pre-eminent among hairy creatures.

2,500/3,000
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