Mythological Statues Appraisal

Pair of Dark Stone Carved Winged Qilin Statues

This is a pair of carved statues depicting mythical 'Qilin' creatures, often referred to as winged horses due to their prominent wings and equine-like bodies. Both sculptures are crafted from a dark, possibly black or very dark grey, stone, which appears to be highly polished, giving them a smooth, lustrous surface. The material exhibits minimal visible graining, suggesting a dense and fine-grained stone such as basalt, serpentine, or a dark jade substitute. Each Qilin is dynamically posed with one front leg raised, suggesting motion or leaping. They feature finely carved details, including textured manes, flowing tails, and distinct feathered wings that arch upwards from their backs. The faces are stylized with pronounced noses and what appear to be small, pointed ears. The forms are stout and muscular, indicative of strength and vigor. The craftsmanship level suggests a degree of skill in stone carving, with well-defined lines and smooth transitions between anatomical features. There are no obvious visible signs of significant damage like chips or cracks on the polished surfaces in the provided image; however, the lighting makes it difficult to ascertain minor surface imperfections or repairs. The style is distinctly Asian, likely Chinese, given the traditional depiction of Qilin. The absence of specific maker's marks or signatures prevents positive identification of the exact origin or age, but similar items often hail from the 20th century, ranging from the mid-century to more contemporary productions. The overall condition appears to be good, with a well-maintained polish. These pieces would serve as decorative art or symbolic figures, often representing good fortune and prosperity.