Bidspirit auction | Xu Zhiqian Carved Large and

Xu Zhiqian Carved Large and Small Lions Tianhuang Stone Seal - THE IMPERIAL YELLOW: A MASTERPIECE BY XU ZHIQIAN Weighing a monumental 200 grams, this square Tianhuang seal is a premier example of the most coveted stone in Chinese culture. The stone possesses a deep, golden chestnut hue with a translucent, jelly-like consistency, featuring the signature ”radish-fiber” grain and fine red veins that define authentic Tianhuang. The seal is topped with a meticulously carved ”Taishi Shaoshi” (Large and Small Lions) finial. The powerful adult lion and playful cub together symbolize the wish for high social standing and successful descendants throughout generations. The carving is exceptionally fluid, capturing the dynamic vitality of the mythical creatures. The historical and artistic significance is elevated by the involvement of Xu Zhiqian, a renowned 20th-century calligrapher and seal carver who was famously chosen to write the text for the Monument to the People's Heroes in Beijing. The seal face is deeply carved with elegant characters, reflecting Xu’s masterly command of archaic scripts. Accompanying the seal is an original handwritten note by the artist, documenting the piece's creation. Combining superior material, prestigious size, and distinguished provenance, this seal represents a rare pinnacle of modern Chinese literati art.