Asian Art & Qilin Myths

Hello everyone, welcome to the Chinese art auction on December 1st, 2024. This video will introduce you three exceptional auction items and explore catapulting tales of the Qilin, the mythical Chinese fortune beast symbolizing prosperity and peace. Learn about its historical significance and artistic representation in Chinese culture. Stay tuned for the details. Lot 10 features a magnificent Chinese natural white Hetian Jade-carved Dragon Turtle statue. The start bidding price is $2,915. This superb piece measures 4.33 inches by 2.56 inches by 4.53 inches and weighs 589 grams, showcasing the creamy, lustrous quality characteristic of fine Hetian Jade. Meticulously hand-carved from a single jade stone, the statue depicts a ferocious dragon turtle, a symbol of strength, protection, and longevity, striding forward with a commanding presence. Perched on its back is a slim dragon gracefully turning its gaze backward, adding a dynamic and mythical essence to the sculpture. The intricate craftsmanship and symbolic meaning make this statue an exceptional piece of art, ideal for display or collection. It's a true testament to the beauty of Chinese jade art history. Lot 219 features a vintage Chinese gilt gold bronze enamel Kongxue Mingwang Peacock Mingwang Mahamuyuri statue, starting at $2,400. This exquisite piece measures 14.72 inches by 15.75 inches by 7.87 inches and weighs 6,384 grams. The Buddha, adored with a high hair crown, is seated gracefully on a lotus base atop a majestic peacock. In the Buddha's left hand, a treasure is held with pearls, symbolizing wisdom and serenity. The peacock's wings are spread elegantly, with its tail beautifully blossoming, embodying vibrancy and life. The entire statue is gilded in radiant gold and intricately decorated with colorful cloth-lined enamel, showcasing the artistry and cultural significance of the masterpiece. Perfect for collectors, it reflects a harmonious blend of spiritual and craftsmanship. Lot 172 displays a Chinese gilt gold vermilion rose enamel porcelain pot with a mountain river scene design. Measuring 8.46 inches by 5.19 inches, the starting bid is $1,700. The pot features a baluster form with exquisite craftsmanship. Its body is adored with four circular medallions, each depicting serene seasonal landscapes, framed by a background of symmetrical lotus flowers and scrolling branches. The base intricately painted with lotus blossoms and plantain leaves, while the rim is detailed with Ruyi patterns, symbolizing good fortune. A circular lid, decorated in gilt gold and red hues with striped slots, elegantly tops the piece. The bottom bears the Qing Dynasty Qianlong mark, indicating its historical significance. This meticulously hand-painted pot exemplifies the rich artistry and cultural heritage of Chinese porcelain, making it valuable collectible for enthusiasts of the fine antiques and decorated arts. Let's discover the fascinating mythologies of Qilin. Qilin, also called Kirin creature, is a mythical creature deeply rooted in Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese cultures. It is often associated with prosperity, serenity, and good fortune. Here is a deep dive into the tales and representations of Qilin around the world. In China, Qilin is the benevolent spirit. The Qilin in Chinese mythology is a compositive creature, often depicted with the body of a deer, the scales of a fish, the tail of an ox, and sometimes a dragon-like head with antlers. It is a gentle, noble beast that appears only in times of peace or to mark the presence of a great sage or ruler. The Qilin does not harm innocent creatures. It is said to walk so delicately that it can tread on grass without crushing it. A famous legend says that a Qilin appeared before the birth of Confucius, carrying a scroll in his mouth. The scroll proclaimed that Confucius would become a great teacher whose wisdom would spread across the land. In some Chinese tales, Qilins serve as divine judges, identifying virtues, individuals, and exposing the wicked. They are said to punish evil doers and protect the righteous. In Japan, the Qilin is a symbol of power as the guardian of righteousness. In Japanese mythology, the Qilin is often linked to justice and good governance. It is considered a divine creature that appears only in peaceful and virtuous eras, much like its Chinese counterpart. The Qilin often appears in religious art, such as temples, carvings, or paintings, symbolizing divine favor and protection. It is sometimes associated with the Shinto deity Tenjin, the god of scholarship. In modern Japan, Qilin is also a popular name for beer brands and video game characters, drawing on the creature's symbolic qualities of strength and grace. In Korea, Qilin is also called Jirin, who is a representation in the Goryeo dynasty. The Jirin is depicted in a slightly different way. It was seen as a celestial animal that brings rain and fertility, making it vital in the agrarian society. During the Goryeo dynasty, images of the Jirin appeared in official seals and royal emblems. In Korean folklore, the Jirin was said to have guided the founder of the ancient kingdom of Goguryeo through perilous journeys to safety, affirming its role as a protector and guide. In Vietnam, Qilin is the guardian of temples. The Qilin Kulen is reserved as a guardian spirit, often seen in sculptures flanking temple gates. These creatures symbolize wisdom, protection, and virtue. The Qilin is also a popular figure during festivals where it is believed to drive away evil spirits and bring prosperity to communities. While the Qilin doesn't have a direct counterpart in Western mythology, it's often compared to the unicorn due to its association with purity and virtue. In some historical exchanges between the East and the West, giraffes were mistaken for Qilin by Chinese travelers. This was due to the giraffe's long neck in spots, which resembled descriptions of the Qilin. The Qilin has inspired various depictions in global pop culture, including in movies, video games, and books, symbolizing wisdom, magic, and guardianship. The Qilin continues to captivate imaginations worldwide, serving as a symbol of virtue, peace, and prosperity. Its tales reflect humanity's desire for justice, harmony, and hope in turbulent times. Welcome to Kuong Gallery, where you will find exquisite handmade art collections like khetien jade, shoushan stone, porcelain, wood, and other creatures. Thank you for visiting and exploring the beauty of art with us.