Stately Kylin in a Composite Silver Statue, China
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This mythological creature is one of the “Four Divine Creatures”, the other three being the phoenix, the turtle and the dragon. In ancient times, it was regarded as a celestial animal, a benevolent animal, the mount for god and a symbol of auspiciousness. Of all animals, the kylin was ranked second only to the dragon. This is an exquisite sculpture. Nice patina.
I acquired this in 2003 from a Shanghai antique dealer.
This item has been sold.