Bronze Pair Of Qilin

This decorative pair of bronze Chinese guardian qilin depicts the mythical creature with its characteristic horned head, powerful legs and body covered with overlapping scales. Each figure is seated upon a rectangular plinth, with one paw resting upon a decorative ball, and retains a richly aged dark surface with areas of warm gilt finish.

The qilin (麒麟) is one of the most auspicious creatures in Chinese mythology. Often described as possessing characteristics of several animals, it is commonly represented with the body of a deer or ox, cloven hooves or claws, scales and one or more horns. Despite its formidable appearance, the qilin was traditionally regarded as an exceptionally gentle creature and is sometimes known as a rén shòu (仁獸), or "benevolent beast." According to legend, it walked with such care that it would neither trample grass nor harm insects beneath its feet.

The appearance of a qilin was considered a particularly favourable omen, associated with peace, prosperity and wise or virtuous rule, and legends also connect its appearance with the birth or death of a great sage.

These figures are modern productions rather than antiques, made in bronze and deliberately finished to give them the character and patina of older examples. Their substantial weight and wonderfully expressive faces make them an impressive decorative tabletop pair for a console or collection of Asian art.