These two magnificent ivory pieces were carved from African elephant ivory (sourced from the Tanganyikan Government's National Reserves) by a master craftsman during the final days of the Qing Dynasty.
The whereabouts of the Kowloon Ivory Lions was unknown for many years until they were re-discovered in 1959 in the shop of a fine art dealer on Nathan Road in Kowloon, where the current owner acquired them.
A pair of "guardian lions" carved from antique ivory — with this level of old-world artistry — is rarely found outside major museums, and yet this pair still remains in private hands. This, along with other factors, makes this particular pair exceptionally valuable and virtually irreplaceable — which has understandably led to a veil of secrecy, mystery and intrigue that has surrounded them since the days of Xuantong, the Last Emperor of China.
Sometimes referred to as Fu Dogs in the West (but known as "imperial guardian lions" in China), these iconic figures have played a significant part in the culture since the 6th century Tang dynasty. They are always created in pairs; the male with a ball beneath his right front paw and the female with a cub under her left paw.
The Kowloon Ivory Lions can be legally acquired — as antique ivory — within Canada. They can also be purchased by buyers around the world who have the resources to export/import antique ivory.
Arrangements can be made, if required by the buyer, to have a reputable art dealer, gallery or museum validate the authenticity of these pieces and/or facilitate the sale.
If you are interested in adding these beautiful pieces to your fine art collection, e-mail inquiry@ivorylions.com, or contact your art dealer directly to have them initiate the process on your behalf.
To view a collection of high-quality images of the Kowloon Ivory Lions, see a slideshow by clicking on the image of the lions above. If you are reading this on your phone (mobile device), visit this website (www.ivorylions.com) on your desktop or laptop to enjoy the complete image gallery.