A LIMESTONE FIGURE OF A LION TANG DYNASTY |

carved seated on its haunches on a rectangular plinth, his head facing forward with large piercing eyes and wide open jaws baring fangs, framed by a finely combed mane extending from the edge of the jawline and cascading in thick curls down the back of head and shoulders, the powerful beast further rendered with its tail raised with the tip swished over to the right, its left front leg playfully patting the cub nuzzling its leg, wood stand

The Von Callenberg Collection.
Sotheby's Hong Kong, 7th April 2014, lot 3630.

Some characteristic weathering due to age, including some weathering to the face, and old weathered chips to some extremities.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Stone sculptures of lions have traditionally been symbols of power and the present figure is a particular striking example, with powerful muscular posture and intricately combed details of the mane and body. The carver has skilfully fashioned the muscular body to reflect the animal's strength while its facial expression is that of an intelligent creature. For a similar Tang dynasty sculpture of a lion, see the example from the Concordia House collection, originally purchased at Sotheby Parke Bernet, 11th May 1978, lot 56, and sold at Sotheby's New York, 19th March 2007, lot 123. For a larger Northern Qi Dynasty example, see the 'Xiangtangshan' lion sculpture from the collection of Sakamoto Gorō sold in these rooms, 8th October 2013, lot 128.