Chinese Male Rhinoceros Carving

Rhinoceros in a suit of carved scales, looking a little pleased with itself.

This carving of a male rhinoceros in hardwood is from China, and dates to the 20th century. Carved animal figures are a long-standing part of Chinese decorative art, and the rhinoceros has appeared in Chinese art since ancient times in bronze, jade and wood. Carved figure of a rhinoceros with a head slightly lowered, two horns and small ears. Its hide is covered in raised, scale-like texture in warm reddish-brown. Small pale eyes give it an alert, amiable look. It is 5 inches wide, 2 deep and 2 high.

Armored, ambling, and surprisingly cheerful about it.