A Large 19th c. Pair of Carved Chinese Red Jade Nephrite Mythical Pixiu. Each depicted on all fours with tail curled by back lion's paw foot. Each measure 10x4x9 combined weight 18 pds. PROVENANCE: A Charleston SC Private Estate. A Pixiu is a Chinese mythical hybrid creature, commonly, but incorrectly referred to in the West by the Greek word "chimera'.They are considered to be a very powerful protector to practitioners of Feng Shui. They resemble a strong, winged lion. Pixiu is an earth and sea variation, particularly an influential and auspicious creature for wealth. It is said to have a voracious appetite towards only gold, silver and jewels. Therefore, traditionally to the Chinese, Pixiu has always been regarded as an auspicious creature that possessed mystical power capable of drawing Cai Qi (wealth) from all directions. Because of this, according to Chinese zodiac, they are especially helpful for those who are going through a bad year. Pixiu are reputed as very fierce creatures. The large fangs, visible in the creatures' snarling mouths, are used to attack demons and evil spirits, draining their essence and converting it to wealth. Pixiu also guard against disease caused by these same evil spirits. It is written that Pixiu patrols the Heavens to keep demons at bay and to protect their owners from all harm. It was believed that the ferociously devoted Pixiu would always and constantly guard its Master, even after he passed from this life into the next world. It was also believed that Pixiu would help their Masters ascend to heaven by flying them up to Heaven while they rode on their strong backs.

good, some minor scratches