Chinese Qing Dynasty, Pair Antique Shou Qilin beast.
A superb, Chinese Qilin sculpture with four legs stand by to guard with face slight to the right shoulder. The qilin body in a red-brown color with ruyi pattern in gilt color. Laying at its side is a similar Qilin looking with facing slight to the left shoulder. Qilin used to ward off spirits, this beast sits majestically across a carved hardwood base wrap with blue fabric.

Measurements: Height 2.5 Width:5.5"

Lot Notes:
The qilin, or Kirin in Japanese, is a mythical hooved chimerical creature known in Chinese and other East Asian cultures, said to appear with the imminent arrival or passing of a sage or illustrious ruler. Qilin is a specific type of the lin mythological family of one-horned beasts. The first qilin is said to have appeared in the garden of the legendary Huangdi (Yellow Emperor) in 2697 bc. Some three centuries later a pair of qilin were reported in the capital of Emperor Yao. Both events bore testimony to the benevolent nature of the rulers. Emperor Wu of Han apparently captured a live qilin in 122 BC, although Sima Qian was skeptical of this. Qilin are noble creatures who mingle with the gods in heaven. When they descend to earth, their pure spirits have a remarkable effect on the world around them. First, these heavenly creatures are always capable of distinguishing between good men and evildoers. Naturally, they choose to associate only with the best of men, the kindest rulers and the wisest sages. They guard the homes of these elite, reward their good deeds with rich blessings, and fill their hearts with happiness. Second, they have the gift of prophecy. Although they rarely come right out and state their predictions, they are powerful omens of good fortune. If you see one of these beautiful creatures, you can be sure that you will soon experience a windfall of good luck or that you will meet one of the great men they accompany. Third, the creatures can provide transportation to and from heaven. They have carried many of China’s greatest heroes, while they were still newborn babies, from heaven down to earth and their destiny. Likewise, they can escort the souls of noble men back to heaven after they die. Finally, in rare cases, they might attack evildoers. Given their gentle nature, they will only attack if they sense an immediate threat towards an innocent person. When they do attack, fire is their weapon of choice; flames surge from their nose and mouth, incinerating the miscreant on the spot. BRONZE The bronze is bright and lustrous as the light is easily reflected from the well-polished surfaces. The plaques split in the middle section, and fitted perfectly upon each other. There is a light grey patina noted in several creases.