Vintage Chinese Stone Carving
Feng Shui Mythical Horse
Dharma Protector
Origin: China, Circa: early 20th Century
H 6.5 in. (16.5cm), W 6.5 in. (16.5cm), D 3 in. (7.5cm)
Condition: a few hairlines, overall very good!
This jade green saualpite or zoisite stone horse is the work of a skilled artisan. The auspicious animal is depicted standing with its head raised in perfect delineation. The hard stone is highly polished, with random ironized mineral deposits tinkling on the surface, with low-relief of swirling reins and a string of bells along its girth, in an attractive forwarding movement with stirrups over a triangular-shaped blanket. The somber treatment and style of this majestic horse are consistent with the Tang horses' motif in 618 to 907 A.D. The horse is a symbol of speed, grandeur, and perseverance. It represents the seventh of twelve terrestrial branches in the Chinese zodiac. It is classed under the element of fire and one of the seven treasures of Buddhism. Following the Feng Shui practice, this green zoisite stone horse is to be placed near the south to bring good fortune. There are a few hairline cracks due to its age.
Private Collection