Lot 203A

Qing Dynasty Stone Carving of Mythical Beast

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Qing Dynasty Stone Carving of Mythical Beast

Estimate: $350 - $525

Starting Bid: $150

(0 Bids)

June 5, 2026 9:00 AM MDT
Live Auction
Louisville, CO, US

Description:

East Asia, China, Qing Dynasty, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A compact Chinese stone carving from the Qing Dynasty depicting a mythical creature that blends features of a goat and a pixiu, carved in the round with lively, animated posture. The creature is shown crouched with head raised and mouth open, its curling horns, muscular limbs, and incised scrollwork emphasizing strength, vigilance, and supernatural presence. Carved from a dark, mottled stone, possibly jade or nephrite, the surface shows subtle polish and areas of natural color variation that enhance the sculptural depth. Mythical animals such as the pixiu were associated with protection, prosperity, and the warding off of negative forces, making carvings like this popular as personal talismans or desk objects. Size: 1.9" L x 1" W x 3.3" H (4.8 cm x 2.5 cm x 8.4 cm)

The combination of compact form, expressive carving, and symbolic subject reflects late Qing tastes for archaistic imagery rendered with playful vigor. Both decorative and auspicious, this figure embodies the enduring appeal of mythical guardians in Chinese material culture.

Provenance: ex-T.F. Holy Lands collection, formed since the 1960s; ex-European estate collection and antique fairs, acquired between 1970 and 2010

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Item # 196010

  • Condition: Good. Intact and excellent with nicely preserved detail.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000