**First Time At Auction**

East Asia, China, Ming Dynasty, ca. 1368 to 1644 CE. A fabulous carved-wood panel of rectangular form featuring the high relief scene of three abstract zoomorphs known as qilins, displaying scaled bodies, dragon-like heads, beards, carp fish whiskers, antlers, cloven hooves, and fish tails. The three mythical beings appear to be placed in the sky with the left-most creature sitting on an orb, the central animal on a tuft of clouds, and the right-most on a type of flying board with a long tassel at its end. Sinuous embellishments, perhaps representing wind, ribbons, or vines, swirl around our main figures, as a sphere and book float above the central animal. Please note that Lucite stand is for photography purposes only. Size: 23.75" W x 7.5" H (60.3 cm x 19 cm)

Qilin are believed to appear upon the passing or arrival of a revered leader, interpreted as a good omen of peace and prosperity. Though appearing beast-like, these eccentric hybrids are said to refuse to walk upon grass for fear of harming a single blade, and thus are frequently depicted walking upon water or clouds, as they are in this example. They can become fierce, however, if a pure person is threatened by a malicious one.

Provenance: private New Jersey, USA collection, acquired 2016; ex-Jack Nelis collection, Netherlands, before 2009; ex-David Baker collection, United Kingdom

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#158497

Some fissures and losses to upper left corner. A few nicks and chips to peripheries. Miniscule stable fissure on left side. Otherwise, very nice with patina throughout.