Burma
First half of the 20th century
Bronze Chimaera
Imposing finely chiseled bronze representation of a chimaera, here a guardian lion (chinthe or chin dhei). It is represented standing on its four legs, its mouth open revealing its fangs, tongue
hanging out. It is adorned with a chain around its neck with a bell and an ornament above the head shaped like a lotus bud. Plant motifs adorn the top of the limbs and small wings are attached to the
back of the legs. The mane is represented by a series of long curls referring to the aesthetics of the arabesque-like tail, the latter ending in a stylized flower. The head must have formerly been
removable, which suggests that it was originally an incense burner.
Dimensions: 31 x 27.5 cm
Formerly part of a set from a private collection.