China, 1736-1795. The beast cast seated on a rectangular base with monster mask feet, modelled with a fierce expression portrayed by bulging eyes and bared teeth, with long curled mane, horns and a bushy tail detailed with finely incised lines.
Provenance: From the private collection of Marion Gaffié, inherited from her father Henri Gaffié, from Nice, France, who was a close friend of Picasso, Dufy, Utrillo and Vlaminck, and a notable art dealer and auctioneer on the French Riviera between the wars.
Condition: Good condition with fine patina and some verdigris. Significant old wear, traces of use and few smaller casting flaws.
Weight: 1764.3 grams
Dimensions: 15.5 cm
Auction Result Comparison: For another bronze from this group see Christies London on May 10th, 2011, in Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, lot 67.