White jade sculpture "Mythical Beast", Qing Dynasty

Sculpture carved in white jade with fine natural veins in shades of ochre and honey, which are elegantly integrated into the figure. It depicts a mythological creature with a robust body, legs tucked in and head raised in a watchful attitude. The feline face, with prominent eyes, half-open mouth and hanging tongue, evokes a mixture of lion, tiger and dragon. The pointed ears are folded back and the carefully engraved mane flows from the forehead to the back.

This type of figure may represent a bixie or qilin, mythical protective creatures known to ward off evil spirits and attract fortune. Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) or later.

Size: 14 x 5.5 x 8 cm

Weight: 1050 g