Late Qing Dynasty, circa: 19th century
H.11 in.(27.5cm) X W.10 in.(25cm) X D.10 in.(25cm)
Condition: chip to mane, o.a. very good!
Stone
Chinese lion head from the 19th Century, most likely removed from a torn down
building or memorial arch to make way for the rapidly expanding Chinese economy.
Figures such as these have appeared in traditional Chinese architecture for thousands
of years, originating from a practice of Chinese peasants to stigmatize a particularly
cruel ruler, and evolving into ornament and tradition. This lion head possibly
was a corner piece, placed in a spot on the structure that was considered to be
lucky, or in need of a guardian. In this sense, the piece is related to the Feng
Shui practice of precisely positioned pillars and doorposts, placed in accordance
to celestial bodies.
The
carving of the piece itself is clearly the work of a skilled artesian, a man who
has been carving stone all his life. Attached to the back of the lion’s head are
the remnants of chiseled stone, the creatures fierce eyes unperturbed by its dislocation.
The lion’s head is beautifully intact with the exception of a small piece of its
mane having broken off. Its mottled stone finish indicates having once been painted,
but all in all it has aged attractively. Truly a unique piece.