A gilt bronze Qilin

Ming dynasty, 1368–1644

Length: 6 in (15.2 cm)

Height: 5 in (12.8 cm)

Although frequently called “the Chinese unicorn”, there were periods in Chinese culture in which the qilin was portrayed just as here, with two sets of horns. Everything else, with the exception of scales on its body, fits the classical image of this auspicious beast. The gilding has survived mostly intact, providing a striking contrast with the reddish mane and tail. The elegantly lifted front leg and the head looking backwards provide the sensation of the qilin in movement and about to change direction, as if something has caught its attention.

One of the four supernatural creatures, the qilin is said to appear whenever a good ruler or a saintly sage appears in the land.

Published: Asiantiques, Chinese Works of Art (2009), cat. no. 100

Ref. 859466

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