Lot 902. A rare gilt-bronze figure of a seated roaring lion, Tang dynasty (AD 618-907); 4 ¼ in. (10.7 cm.) high. Estimate USD 20,000 - USD 30,000. Price realised USD 67,500. © Christie's Image Ltd 2020.

Possibly the cover of a censer, the powerfully rendered beast shown seated with mouth open in a roar with long, curly mane and tail, with an inscription on the rim of the base, reading 'guan yao' (official kiln).

Provenance: David Newman, London, 13 February 1975.
The James and Marilynn Alsdorf Collection, Chicago.

Literature: The Arts Club of Chicago, Chinese Art from the Collection of James W. and Marilynnn Alsdorf, Chicago, 1970, no. B27.

Exhibited: Chicago, The Arts Club of Chicago, Chinese Art from the Collection of James W. and Marilynn Alsdorf, 21 September-13 November 1970.

Christie's. Sacred and Imperial: The James and Marilynn Alsdorf Collection Part II, New York, 24 September 2020