Carved agate figure, Xizhen style, Han dynasty.

Sculpture representing the figure of a lion squatting delicately carved in a single piece of agate. This mythological animal, along with the tiger, leopards, turtles, deer ... are animals of the zodiac and in the Han dynasty agate used these figures as a means to ward off evil and attract good omens. The posture of these animals is usually squatting and the preferred materials were copper, iron, jade and stone. It is in perfect condition without breakage. 

In perfect condition.

Height: 4.60 cm; Thickness: 5.70 cm; Weight: 185 g

Provenance: 

European private collection.