Japonista
Qilin chino de bronce fundido, encabritado, con crin y cola llameantes, bestia auspiciosa, atribuido aproximadamente a la dinastía Qing
Qilin chino de bronce fundido, encabritado, con crin y cola llameantes, bestia auspiciosa, atribuido aproximadamente a la dinastía Qing
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Among the gentlest of mythical beasts, the qilin, or kirin in Japan, was said to appear only in the reign of a just ruler. Here it rears in cast bronze, mane and tail flaring into flame, its muscular modeling and dark, naturally aged surface pointing to the Qing dynasty.
The Piece
This bronze sculpture depicts a qilin, known in Japan as kirin, one of the most revered and auspicious mythical creatures of East Asian cosmology. Cast in a dynamic rearing posture, the beast rises on its hind legs, mane and tail erupting into flame-like forms that signal divine energy and celestial authority. It symbolizes virtue, protection and enlightened rule.
The qilin is associated with benevolent rule, moral virtue and the arrival of enlightened leadership. Unlike aggressive guardian beasts, it is said to tread so lightly that it does not crush the grass beneath its hooves, and its appearance traditionally heralds peace, prosperity and the presence of a just ruler.
This example shows strong Qing dynasty styling: muscular anatomical modeling, animated flame motifs and a darkened bronze surface with natural age patina. Its sculptural language reflects the late imperial Chinese scholar-bronze tradition, in which mythical animals served both as spiritual symbols and as refined decorative objects.
Details
- Era: Qing dynasty (estimated)
- Origin: China
- Material: Cast bronze with darkened natural age patina
- Form: Mythical beast sculpture (qilin / kirin), rearing, with flaming mane and tail
Condition
Darkened bronze surface with natural age patina.
Authenticity & Care
The Qing dynasty dating is an estimate based on styling. Every piece is examined and documented in Japan before dispatch and is offered with the Japonista authenticity guarantee.
Delivery from Japan
Packed by hand in Japan and shipped insured and tracked by EMS or an equivalent express service. Import duties and taxes, where applicable, are payable on arrival. Returns follow our published policy.
Considered offers are welcome through Send an Offer, and each one is reviewed personally. Pieces over $1,000 may be reserved over several payments with Layaway Privilege™.
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Temple to Home
Monumental statues, zushi shrines and altars travel crated and insured through our Museum-Grade Logistics Suite™. Seeking a particular deity or school? The Hunting Salon™ searches Japan for it. Arrange crating and freight →
Collectors also search: qing dynasty bronze qilin · chinese bronze kirin statue · bronze qilin sculpture · chinese scholar bronze animal · mythical beast bronze figure · rearing qilin flame mane
