A very lively antique Chinese Cizhou lion pillow dating to the Song dynasty. It is decorated in black slip and with incised decorations to the lions main and tail. This piece measures 9 1/2 " long by 4 1/2" wide by 2 3/4" tall approximately. The condition is excellent for it's one thoand years or so of age. The original glaze has some drips around the base. On one hind leg there is a nibble to the white glaze which is very small. There are no repairs. I think what i love the most about this ancient pillow is the slightly wild and playful depiction of the lion. A certificate of authenticity will accompany this piece. IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT 'FAKE' ANTIQUITIES AND ANTIQUES Unfortunately, many items represented as authentic Antiquities are not genuinely ancient objects at all. Instead they are later s, mostly of very recent manufacture, though a few s of ancient objects are much older. Regardless of age if a later is represented as genuinely ancient then it becomes a 'fake' antiquity. Likewise, if a later is represented as genuinely antique then it becomes a 'fake' antique. It is always wise to deal with experienced and knowledgeable dealers who are members of the governing international and national antique and art dealers associations. The membership process involves assessments of the dealer's reputation, indtry experience, qualifications and knowledge. Only those meeting these standards are granted membership. Membership formally recognizes the dealer's expertise. Members comply with the associations' codes of practice and guidelines regarding authenticity and s. We are of course members of the premier national and international associations for antique and art dealers, namely... - Members of the Confédération Internationale des Négociants en Oeuvres d'Art CINOA - Members of the Atralian Antique and Art Dealers Association AA&ADA as well as... - Members of the National Council of Jewellery Valuers NCJV - Members and Fellows of the Gemmological Association of Atralia GAA - Members of the Society of Jewellery Historians We advise collectors, antique dealers, auction hoes, insurers and jewellers. We are involved in the management and development of significant private collections of antiques, antiquities and jewels including important Jades and Asian antiques.