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Mythical Chimera (Kirin) Standing on a Seal

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The sculpture depicts a mythical creature known as a Kirin, which resembles a chimera. The creature has the body of a deer or horse, with a long neck and a single horn protruding from its forehead. The horn is long and curved, extending upwards and backwards. The creature's head is turned to the left, with its mouth closed. Its ears are visible on either side of its head. The body has detailed carvings to indicate fur. The creature stands on a round base with a small object on the ground in front. The background is a plain gray color. The sculpture appears to be made of ivory or a similar material. The overall style suggests it is a traditional Japanese or Chinese piece, specifically a representation of a Kirin, also known as a Qilin. The artist is unknown. The title of the piece is "Mythical Chimera (Kirin) Standing on a Seal".

Artwork Details

Date
second half 18th century–first half 19th century
Medium
Ivory
Culture
Japan
Dimensions
468 × 624 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette