Jade figurine "Lioness and cub", Qing dynasty

Hetian white jade figure, with reddish spots, carved in the form of a "lioness and cub". The lioness has the posture lying on her outstretched paws with her head cocked to one side. On one side the cub is climbing on the back. The face has the usual features: bulging eyes, droopy ears, wide nostrils and open muzzle showing teeth. The back is shaggy and ends in a lopsided tail with scroll decoration. The calf has the same characteristics. The details of the figures are very well represented. 

The traditional Chinese concept "太师少师" (Tài shī shao shī) very widespread in the arts, although it comes from architecture, refers to a lion or lioness holding a cub. The difference in size is always emphasized between them. Lion and master are pronounced the same way "Tài shī shao shī" and thus the meaning of a lion as master is taken. Also, a large lion next to a small lion signifies the desire to succeed.

Provenance: Important collection of Tommy Lam, Hong Kong, since 1980.

Measures: 7 x 7 x 10 cm; Weight: 560 g