A BRONZE OPENWORK 'XIEZHI' SCHOLAR'S-DESK SCREEN Late Ming Dynasty (2)A BRONZE OPENWORK 'XIEZHI' SCHOLAR'S-DESK SCREENLate Ming DynastyCrisply cast in openwork with floral scrolls, in the centre a mythical xiezhi with its horned-head turned sharply towards its back and gazing up at a blossoming flower, stand. 18.5cm (7 1/4in) high. (2).Please note this Lot is to be sold at No Reserve. 本拍品不設底價明晚期 銅獬豸镂空插屏The xiezhi is a mythical creature often confused with the qilin. It resembles an ox or goat, with thick dark fur covering its body, bright eyes, and a single long horn on its forehead. It has great intellect and understands human speech. The xiezhi possesses the innate ability to distinguish right from wrong and when it finds corrupt officials, it will ram them with its horn and devour them. It is thus known as a symbol of justice. The present lot therefore, would have been well suited to a scholar-official's desk and in effect, resembles a rank badge worn on official robes.