Bring a legendary touch of protective power and ancient lore to your home with this stunning vintage Asian lacquer wall panel. This striking piece features a highly detailed, iridescent mother of pearl inlay depicting a mythical qilin or kirin leaping over waves beneath stylized clouds.
- SIZE: 23" H x 11.25" W (Measurements are close but approximate)
- DECADE: 1970s
- STYLE: Asian Traditional / Hollywood Regency Chic
- CONDITION: Good vintage condition with intact mother of pearl inlay; the black lacquer finish shows some light scratches, minor scrapes, and surface crackling from age
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EXTRA NOTES: Features a traditional metal hanger attached to the top edge for simple wall mounting
Often mistaken for a dog, lion, or dragon-horse, the qilin (or kirin) is a legendary hooved chimerical creature in Chinese and East Asian mythology. Symbolizing luck, prosperity, longevity, and illustriously good omens, it is traditionally depicted with scales, a fierce but benevolent dragon-like head, and a fiery tail. Late 20th-century artisans masterfully used hand-cut, shifting mother of pearl shell to illuminate these powerful protectors against a deep lacquer background, making them classic statements in traditional and Hollywood Regency galleries.