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Subject:Bronze Dragon For Age, Where and Value
Posted By: Dave H Mon, Feb 08, 2021 IP: 104.200.132.168

This bronze dragon is a decent size at 22 inches long by 19 inches tall. No marks that I can see. Would this be called a "Dragon Horse" as it does have hooves instead of claws.
Looking for info on age, where it may have been made and what a fair market value would be.
Thanks to all .....







Subject:Re: Bronze Dragon For Age, Where and Value
Posted By: Steve Gridley Tue, Feb 09, 2021

Your bronze is a chimera or qilin, a mythical beast with a dragons head, rams horns, the body of a deer - with scales, and hooves of a horse. These types of creatures appeared first during the Han Dynasty. Reference: Sotheby's & Christie's.

The underside looks good for 19th Century period bronzes. There is corrosion on the pins that hold the Qilin to the base. Prior to the deterioration, early nuts were likely screwed onto the pins so you want to be sure and lift the bronze by the base.

I can't make out in the photos if there are hand chased details consistent with 19th Century bronzes. A lack of hand chasing would be more typical of 20th Century commercial castings.

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Subject:Re: Bronze Dragon For Age, Where and Value
Posted By: Suzume Art Tue, Feb 09, 2021

Hi,

That creature is what's known as a Kirin (Japan) or a Qilin (China). They're not actually "dragons" per say but a separate being altogether. They're auspicious creatures, defenders of the wise and punishers of the wicked.

I'd say this is a Chinese statue. I don't think it's ancient but it isn't brand new either. Probably somewhere in the 20th century.

It's hard to tell from just the pictures but it looks to be made of brass or maybe spelter? You can tell if it's bronze by putting your hand to it. If it feels really cold then it might just be bronze.

As for value, unfortunately I don't think it's worth a fortune.

Subject:Re: Bronze Dragon For Age, Where and Value
Posted By: Dave H Wed, Feb 10, 2021

Steve and Suzume thank you both very much for the information. Now when I see the words "Chimera, Kirin or Qilin" I will know what they are referring to...
Thanks again & have a good one .....


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