Sculptures of lions have a long history in Chinese art. Although known since early Han dynasty, figures of lions in lapidary art developed with the spread of Buddhism, when they began to be placed at the entrance of temples and important halls to ensure the protection of those who entered. Since the Tang dynasty onwards they were shown in pairs, the male with its paw over a sphere while the female with a cub, and only during the Ming and Qing dynasty depictions of playful lions began to acquire popularity.

Fashioned from a particularly large white jade pebble, this charming carving is impressive for its sensitive and detailed modelling that pleasantly contrast the animal’s playful pose. The large recumbent beast carved in the round holds the ribbon of a brocade ball while its young cub clambers up tugging at one of the ribbons. The skill of the carver has been displayed in full effect through the naturalistically captured interlocking paws and the meticulous carving of the creatures’ fur.

Provenance : Previously in the collection of judge Edgar Bromberger (1889 - 1956).