Tang Dynasty (7th–10th Century) Monumental Stone Sculpture of a Tianlu Mythical Guardian Beast

拍品描述

Dimensions: 121 cm (47.64 in) in height, 94 cm (37.01 in) in width; Period: 7th-10th century. Condition and Provenance: This large Tang Dynasty stone deer statue retains its original monolithic stone base, and the main body remains largely intact. Facial features, curled antlers, flowing wing ornamentation, robust four-legged body, and details such as the mane carving are all remarkably well-preserved. Traces of original painted pigments remain on the surface; erosion, shallow surface wear, and cracks from ancient repairs are visible, consistent with long-term burial underground and natural weathering. There is no extensive modern recarving, heavy artificial restoration, or artificial pigment covering. All carving chisels and remaining paint marks are authentic Tang Dynasty artifacts. This magnificent mythical beast statue comes from a renowned private collector in California specializing in early Chinese stone carvings. The piece was acquired in the late 1970s by a highly respected San Francisco Asian antique dealer and has remained in the same private collection ever since. Original acquisition documents, conservation survey reports, and old photographs have been fully archived and categorized as Tang Dynasty funerary stone sculptures. Its provenance is clearly traceable. Description: This magnificent Tang Dynasty Tianlu (Heavenly Path Beast) stone sculpture is an outstanding representative of high-level Tang Dynasty funerary stone sculpture art. Tianlu beasts were often placed in aristocratic tombs to ward off evil and symbolize power and good fortune. This sculpture exhibits the distinctive and expressive characteristics of the Tang Dynasty: solemn gait, dignified face, exquisite carving, upward-reaching wings, and meticulously depicted mane and fur textures—all details are presented with powerful and vigorous carving techniques. Residual traces of paint are found on the wings, echoing its original vibrant colors. Large Tang Dynasty stone Tianlu sculptures in such good condition, with original bases and paint traces, are extremely rare in private collections. It provides irreplaceable material for the study of Tang Dynasty funerary rites, stone carving techniques, and mythical beast images. It has a strong museum-level visual impact, important archaeological and historical significance, and top-level antique collection value.

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