A pair of carved qilin

Ming dynasty, 17th century
China

carbon 14 test result no. rcd-6325 confirms the date

height: 9 cm

A mythical beast symbolic of good government and longevity, the qilin is also an emblem of high rank and a symbol of steadfastness, beneficence and a desire for blessings. These creatures are truly fantastical and portrayed, in form, as a combination of dragon, lion and deer. Although ferocious in aspect, they are meant to show the kindest disposition.

The qilin crouch on oval rockwork bases in mirror image – their heads turned, and one hoof resting on a rocky outcrop. Their open mouths roar and emit a swirling ribbon that collects on the back of each animal in the form of a cloud; upon this rests an open book. Flame like tongues fork upwards from the legs, and the scaly bodies are adorned with a bushy tail and mane. Each has a ridged back, and a pair of horns either side of a hairy tuft of hair – resembling a third horn.

similar example
‘Bamboo, Wood, Ivory and Rhinoceros Horn Carvings – The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum’, 2001 – no.106.