The animal carved as a ‘Tianlu’, the fierce and powerful male form of the ‘Pixiu’ with one horn, in charge of wealth; its mouth opened to show its teeth while leaning on its front paw, ready to go out into the world in search of riches.
This exquisite and rare carving epitomises the height of carving in 18th century China. The carvers have exploited all the qualities of this exceptionally large piece of rock crystal, while also cleverly incorporating the few inclusions in the design.
30. A rock crystal carving of a mythical beast, ‘Tianlu’, with fitted wood stand (18th century)
Description
Dimensions: 26cm high, 30cm wide (with stand)
Provenance:
A private collection in Chicago, USA
The animal carved as a ‘Tianlu’, the fierce and powerful male form of the ‘Pixiu’ with one horn, in charge of wealth; its mouth opened to show its teeth while leaning on its front paw, ready to go out into the world in search of riches.
This exquisite and rare carving epitomises the height of carving in 18th century China. The carvers have exploited all the qualities of this exceptionally large piece of rock crystal, while also cleverly incorporating the few inclusions in the design.
£28,000
Information
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