Chinese antique small porcelain bowl with lobed edges, painted with a qilin against a background of rocks and trees. The sides are painted with more rural scenes in blue, green, black, red and yellow enamel. The significance of the qilin is that it is said to appear upon the imminent arrival of a sage or "illustrious ruler". It embodies and protects Chinese virtues on earth, using it's magical powers to uplift the good. A chimeric creature, the qilin has the features of various animals including the head of a dragon.

Age: Kangxi inscription and Period.

Dimensions: 5 1/2" wide x 1 1/4" high