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In the Confucian tradition, a qilin is a mythical creature thought to appear when a sage ruler came to the throne. This exquisitely cast bronze example served as an auspicious ornament or paperweight on a scholar’s desk.
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明 銅鎏金麒麟形紙鎮
Title: Paperweight in the shape of a Qilin
Period: Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
Date: 15th–16th century
Culture: China
Medium: Copper alloy
Dimensions: W. 2 1/2 in. (6.4 cm); W. 2 1/2 in. (6.4 cm); D. 1 3/4 in. (4.4 cm)
Classification: Metalwork
Credit Line: Purchase, Friends of Asian Art Gifts, 2016
Object Number: 2016.243
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