A gilt-bronze 'lion' Daoist seal, Tang - Song dynasty

Acquired at the Chicago Antiques Fair, circa 2005.

One of the most admired animals during the Tang dynasty, the present lot exudes strength and dominance with the lion's muscular forelegs outstretched and fierce expression. The finely detailed mane and intricately curled tail add elegance to its commanding presence, while the naturalistic musculature highlights the latent tension and energy beneath the gilded surface. See a closely related Tang dynasty gilt-bronze lion, formerly in the collection of Stephen Junkunc III, sold in these rooms, 19th March 2019, lot 119. Compare another smaller example, in the National Palace Museum, Taipei, illustrated on the museum's website (accession no. 贈銅000360N000000000).

The present lot was likely used for rituals or belonged to a Daoist priest. As discussed by Shih-shan Huang, 'Daojiao Yinzhang[Daoist Seals]', Art Panorama, Tianjin, 2023, p. 78, seal inscriptions utilizing seal script, such as the present lot, are the least numerous in the Daozang (a large canon of Daoist writings assembled around the 5th century). Compared to other types, the seal script style is the easiest to recognize, reflecting the close relationship between Daoism and mainstream seal culture of the time. These inscriptions typically summon deities holding important positions crucial to Daoist rituals. In addition to seals directly related to ritual functions, those identifying Daoist priests - used as personal seals or for other religious purposes - typically employ seal script.

It is very rare to find a gilt-bronze 'lion' seal. Compare a related feline seal with the beast in a slightly crouching pose, attributed to the Eastern Han/Six Dynasties, previously in the collection of Henri Vever, sold in our London rooms, 7th June 1994, lot 13. See another Song dynasty gilt-bronze 'mythical beast' seal, sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 1st July 2021, lot 5043.