Carved Dragon & Tiger Water Buffalo Horn Sculptures | East Asia | Mid–Late 20th Century
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: East Asia (likely China or Southeast Asia)
Material: Polished water buffalo horn with painted and etched detailing
Period: Mid to Late 20th Century (circa 1960–1980)
Description
A striking matched pair of curved horn sculptures, each intricately etched and painted in gold with dynamic scenes of celestial dragons soaring above prowling tigers amidst swirling cloud motifs. The designs embody the classical East Asian yin-yang balance: the dragon symbolizing celestial strength and authority, the tiger representing earthly power and ferocity.
Mounted on custom black lacquered wood bases, the horns are arranged as mirrored counterparts, facing inward to create a dramatic, symmetrical display. The natural horn striations and polished surfaces enhance their visual and tactile appeal.
Features
- Dragon and tiger iconography etched and painted in gold pigment
- Polished horn surfaces with visible natural growth striations
- Pair designed with mirrored composition for symmetrical display
- Freestanding black lacquered bases for stability and presentation
Cultural Significance
In East Asian tradition, the dragon and tiger are eternal rivals and complementary forces, symbolizing cosmic dualities of sky and earth, spirit and body, yang and yin. Their pairing represents strength in opposition and ultimate harmony, making such artworks not only decorative but deeply symbolic in meaning.
Condition
Excellent overall condition with only minor surface wear consistent with age. Natural horn striations present. Based on visual analysis, these are believed to be genuine water buffalo horn; however, no destructive testing has been performed to confirm material.
Dimensions (each, approximate)
Height: 15.5 in
Width: 11 in
Age
Circa 1960–1980
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: East Asia (likely China or Southeast Asia)
Material: Polished water buffalo horn with painted and etched detailing
Period: Mid to Late 20th Century (circa 1960–1980)
Description
A striking matched pair of curved horn sculptures, each intricately etched and painted in gold with dynamic scenes of celestial dragons soaring above prowling tigers amidst swirling cloud motifs. The designs embody the classical East Asian yin-yang balance: the dragon symbolizing celestial strength and authority, the tiger representing earthly power and ferocity.
Mounted on custom black lacquered wood bases, the horns are arranged as mirrored counterparts, facing inward to create a dramatic, symmetrical display. The natural horn striations and polished surfaces enhance their visual and tactile appeal.
Features
- Dragon and tiger iconography etched and painted in gold pigment
- Polished horn surfaces with visible natural growth striations
- Pair designed with mirrored composition for symmetrical display
- Freestanding black lacquered bases for stability and presentation
Cultural Significance
In East Asian tradition, the dragon and tiger are eternal rivals and complementary forces, symbolizing cosmic dualities of sky and earth, spirit and body, yang and yin. Their pairing represents strength in opposition and ultimate harmony, making such artworks not only decorative but deeply symbolic in meaning.
Condition
Excellent overall condition with only minor surface wear consistent with age. Natural horn striations present. Based on visual analysis, these are believed to be genuine water buffalo horn; however, no destructive testing has been performed to confirm material.
Dimensions (each, approximate)
Height: 15.5 in
Width: 11 in
Age
Circa 1960–1980
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