Pair of BIG cobalt blue and gold glazed porcelain Qilin ( dragon/ lions)

Condition: New

Pair of cobalt blue and gold glazed porcelain Qilin (also known as Chi Lin or Asian mythical dragon-horses) often used as Feng Shui guardian and prosperity statuary

A Qilin is a heavenly creature who embodies the virtues of Chinese civilization. He also protects these virtues on earth, using his magical powers to uplift good men wherever he finds them.

Qilin are extraordinarily beautiful creatures, sparkling like gems and adorned in flames. With their scaly bodies and horned heads, they resemble Chinese dragons, but their legs terminate in delicate hooves, rather than the dragon’s vicious paws, and their tails are lion-like instead of serpentine.

No two Qilin look exactly the same. They each have their own, unique embellishments: carp whiskers, plumes of feathers, branched antlers, scales made of precious metals, fiery manes, unicorn-like horns. Whatever their special attraction, they always move gracefully and dazzle the mortals who see them.

Special Abilities
Qilin are noble creatures who mingle with the gods in heaven. When they descend to earth, their pure spirits have a remarkable effect on the world around them.

First, these heavenly creatures are always capable of distinguishing between good men and evildoers. Naturally, they choose to associate only with the best of men, the kindest rulers and the wisest sages. They guard the homes of these elite, reward their good deeds with rich blessings, and fill their hearts with happiness.

Second, they have the gift of prophecy. Although they rarely come right out and state their predictions, they are powerful omens of good fortune. If you see one of these beautiful creatures, you can be sure that you will soon experience a windfall of good luck or that you will meet one of the great men they accompany.

Third, the creatures can provide transportation to and from heaven. They have carried many of China’s greatest heroes, while they were still newborn babies, from heaven down to earth and their destiny. Likewise, they can escort the souls of noble men back to heaven after they die.

Finally, in rare cases, they might attack evildoers. Given their gentle nature, they will only attack if they sense an immediate threat towards an innocent person. When they do attack, fire is their weapon of choice; flames surge from their nose and mouth, incinerating the miscreant on the spot.

Buddhist lore adds an extra quirk to their powers. Because of their extreme gentleness, they are afraid to walk on the grass, lest they injure an innocent blade. To protect the grass, they conjure up small clouds or fountains of water and float just above the ground, instead of taking the risk of trampling a life.