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The Qilin Brings Sons (Pair with 1989/2.160)

Chinese

Artwork Details

The Qilin Brings Sons (Pair with 1989/2.160)
20th century
Chinese
woodblock print on paper
20 3/8 in x 12 3/16 in (51.8 cm x 31 cm);21 9/16 in x 13 3/8 in (54.8 cm x 33.9 cm);20 3/8 in x 12 3/16 in (51.8 cm x 31 cm)
Gift of Willard A. and Marybelle B. Hanna

1989/2.159

Tags

Description

Subject Matter:

Two figures are riding a hoofed animal. This animal is known as Qilin, a mythical hoofed animal with dragon-like features, also sometimes known as a Chinese unicorn. The Qilin is supposedly a gatekeeper that guarded a fairy's cave in the mountains. This animal is known as a symbol to provide prosperity or serenity, and when it has babies on the back, such as this image, it is bringing extraordinary children from heaven to parents.

Physical Description:

Two figures are seen riding a hoofed animal and they are facing left. The larger figure is holding the smaller figure, who is holding a red flower in his hand, and they are dressed in colorful and elaborate clothing. 

Usage Rights:

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