Figure of a carved jade 'Lion with cub', Qing Dynasty

Figure of a carved jade 'Lion with cub', Qing Dynasty

A white jade figure, with reddish flecks, carved in the form of a 'Chinese lion' with a small cub in its lap. The figure of the animal is well depicted, lying on its paws with its head tilted forward. The face has a serene and calm expression, playful with its young, as it has its own tail in its mouth, showing that it is playing with it. The back is rough, emerging from a thick mane, with a line marking the length of the spine and on its sides tufts of hair made in fine strokes, the carving ending in a bushy tail.

The form of the 'lion' or mythical beast in ancient Chinese myths and legends is derived from the transliteration of ancient Sanskrit. Images of these figures are depicted on ancient textiles, belt buckles, seals, bells or buttons to ward off evil spirits. In the southern dynasties, stone statues were often found in front of tombs for the same reason. Qing Dynasty (1644–1912). Oval carved wooden pedestal.

Size: 3.6 X 6 X 7.8 cm;Weight: 232 gr

Provenance: Current French private collection. -Previous owner of lot: 92, (Carved spinach green jade vase, Qing dynasty) Auction: Asian Art Auction 29 December 2022. Darley Auctions.