A Chinese Champleve Bronze Mythical Animal

Qing dynasty (1644-1912), 18th century, a finely cast bronze inlaid with champleve cloisonne enamel, a rare Chinese champleve depiction of a qilin, a mythical animal that had features of a lion, a unicorn, and a deer, the sight of this animal was thought to mean good luck or that joyous news was imminent, presented together with a custom fitted carved wood stand.

DOA 5 x 8 x 4 1/4 in.

From the Estate of the late Businessman and Conservationist, Russell M. Leiman, Durham, North Carolina Russell Leiman built a significant portion of his career in Asian financial and corporate markets. Based in the major business centers of Hong Kong and Tokyo in the 1970s and 1980s, he advised and managed operations for global firms entering Asian markets, navigating the region’s diverse regulatory environments and rapidly growing economies. His expertise centered on structuring investments, developing multinational business strategies, and aligning Western corporate objectives with the business culture and market realities of East and Southeast Asia. At 50 years old, he moved his focus from finance to philanthropy, becoming deeply involved with The Nature Conservancy in Asia, where he helped apply private-sector financial models to support conservation initiatives across the region.

C. Y. Tse Antiques, Hong Kong, purchased in June 1994.

Good estate condition; some light rubbing and scattered wear consistent with age; three paper labels to the underside including a C. Y. Tse sticker.