Page 32 - Bonhams Chinese Works of Art June 2015 Hong Kong

ANOTHER PROPERTY
另一件藏品

15 The carving of the present lot is particularly rare with the mythical
A RARE GREYISH AND RUSSET JADE CARVING OF A QILIN beast carrying on its back a pearl emanating from a wisp of clouds,
17th/18th century compared to the more familiar subject of qilin carrying books.
Crisply carved, its head turned sharply to the left, looking back at The qilin represents a number of positive attributes including
the floating pearl amid ruyi-shaped puffs of cloud issuing from its benevolence, longevity, grandeur, felicity, illustrious offspring and wise
mouth, the horned beast with curling beard, tail and line-incised mane administration. It is considered a good omen as it is said to appear
recumbent with its four legs tucked gracefully under the body, with only during the reign of a benevolent ruler. The pearl carried on top of
flame-like motifs to the haunches, the stone of grey tone with minor the cloud scrolls could be associated with the pearl so often depicted
russet inclusions, wood stand. pursued by dragons. The combined representation of the qilin and the
9.7cm (3 7/8in) long (2). pearl could therefore symbolise wise administration of the empire by
the virtuous ruler, the emperor.
HK$180,000 - 240,000
US$23,000 - 31,000 Compare a related white and russet jade carving of a qilin sold in our
London rooms on 15 May 2014, lot 170.
十七/十八世紀 灰玉雕麒麟擺件
麒麟是仁慈和祥的象徵，主太平、長壽、吉祥。此拍品中的「麒麟吐
珠」紋飾在玉器中非常少見，參考一件白玉帶皮雕麒麟例子，倫敦邦
瀚斯，2014年5月15日，拍品170。

30 | BONHAMS