Shoushang Seal ‘Lions’, Qing dynasty

A light-coloured carved stone seal with reddish and brownish stains. It has a large square base, one side of which is decorated with incised writing. On the upper part is a scene of three large foo lions, arranged around a large sphere with a decorative ribbon and bow. The protective beasts of the sphere have robust bodies with curled tails and long manes covering their heads, with intimidating faces, gaping jaws showing their teeth, broad noses and piercing eyes. The quality of the carving and the meticulousness with which the details have been executed are remarkable. 

At the base is the seal, made up of various bas-relief characters. 

Size: 9.2 x 8.2 x 8.2 cm

Weight: 1166 g