L. 10,5 cm Condition A FINE CARVED JADE MODEL OF A RECUMBENT QILIN, China, 17th/18th ct. Crisply carved, its head turned sharply to the left, looking back at the floating pearl amid ruyi-shaped puffs of cloud issuing from its mouth, the horned beast with curling beard, tail and line-incised mane recumbent with its four legs tucked gracefully under the body, with flame-like motifs to the haunches, the stone of grey tone with minor russet inclusions, wood stand. The qilin represents a number of positive attributes including benevolence, longevity, grandeur, felicity, illustrious offspring and wise administration. It is considered a good omen as it is said to appear only during the reign of a benevolent ruler. The pearl carried on top of the cloud scrolls could be associated with the pearl so often depicted pursued by dragons. The combined representation of the qilin and the pearl could therefore symbolise wise administration of the empire by the virtuous ruler, the emperor. Carved wood stand-Former property from a European private collection-Few tiny chips