A Chinese bamboo carving of a Luohan taming a lion. Qing dynasty, 19th century. The Luohan seated on a rocky base with an arm resting on his knees and his foot resting on the upward gazing lion’s neck. Three character collector’s mark to the base ‘Hueyue collection’. The depiction of a Luohan (Buddhist sage) taming a lion refers to Vajraputra, also known as the "Laughing Lion Luohan" or "Smiling Lion Luohan". This Luohan is often depicted with a playful lion cub or a Buddhist lion, symbolizing his ability to tame the wild and fierce nature, both within himself and in the world. Provenance: From the collection of a German diplomat, acquired from Kunsthaus Lempertz, Cologne, 11 June 2007, lot 357. Original invoice available. Dimensions: Height 10.2 cm, width 10 cm, depth 7.2 cm. Worldwide registered and insured shipping.