Chinese Yellow and Russet Jade Mythical Beast, Ming Dynasty or Earlier
- 手工雕刻
- 玉
A superb Chinese yellow and russet nephrite jade carving of a mythical beast, Ming Dynasty (1368 to 1644) or earlier, China
The mythical beast is portrayed with feline features, including a muscular, compact body, a broad face with flattened ears, and a large bushy tail raised high . A ridge of fur has been carved running down its back. The leonine beast crouches on all fours, head turned and looking up with large, expressive eyes.
The fantastic beast holds a large spray of lingzhi mushrooms, the fungus of immortality, in its mouth, visible on the back of the carving. The russet "skin" of the jade is used masterfully to portray the lingzhi. The russet also with areas of "chicken-bone", especially to the sides and the lingzhi carving.
Carved of a fine celadon nephrite jade with yellow overtones and a russet "skin", a distinct combination commonly referred to as "yellow and russet", the small beast is carved in a Song Dynasty (960 to 1279) style, and possibly of the period. However, we are conservatively dating this piece to Ming Dynasty or earlier.
Meant for the scholar's desk, this wonderful animal would have served as a curiosity, a fondling stone, paperweight, and object of wonder to be viewed, touched, discussed and treasured.