A Pair of Monumental, Rare and Important Chinese Imperial Stone Dragon Spouts QIANLONG PERIOD Overall length approximately 48 inches.

QIANLONG PERIOD

the boldly carved stone dragon heads each having two water spouts to the right and left of the tongue, connecting to a large hole to the rear, the dragon's mouth carved with finely detailed teeth and fangs with raised whiskers protruding from the nose, the neck carved with three levels of beard and flames, the neck and belly carved with raised scales, the top of the head with single long horn.

Overall length approximately 48 inches.

Provenance: Ex-collection of H. Medill Sarkisian (1909-1993), Denver, Colorado, acquired in 1941 in England, then passed through the family to the current owner, grandson Medill Sakisian. Note: It is believed that these monumental carvings were used at a temple or palace. Almost identical stone dragons appear at the Luguo Bridge, and were used to commemorate Qianlong's rebuilding of the bridge in the 50th year of his reign (ca. 1785). Another similar example is the bixi stele sculpture at Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, dated to the 18th Century.

Each having erosion throughout consistent with age, use and exposure to the weather. Old scuffs and marks consistent with age and maybe transportation issues. Traces of paint. Old dirt and residue to the recesses. Having chips to the teeth possibly due to erosion. Later stands. One spout likely made of marble and the other grey hardstone.

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Chinese Works of Art: An Important Collection

A Pair of Monumental, Rare and Important Chinese Imperial Stone Dragon Spouts QIANLONG PERIOD Overall length approximately 48 inches.

QIANLONG PERIOD

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