A vintage Chinese cast bronze figure of a qilin, an auspicious mythical creature traditionally depicted with a dragon like head, scaled body, hooved legs and elaborate tail. Shown in a lively forward moving pose with an open mouth, horns, finely incised scales and feathered detailing to the tail. The bronze has developed extensive blue-green verdigris alongside areas of warm brown and reddish oxidation, with surface wear and irregularity consistent with age. In Chinese decorative tradition, the qilin is associated with good fortune, prosperity and longevity. A great small scale bronze with particularly good movement and an untouched aged surface.
• 24cmW x 6.5cmD x 17.5cmH
