18/19th C Qing Dynasty Antique Chinese gilt bronze finely cast in model of Shennongjia - goats south of Muyu, Hubei, China, generally have gregarious and have fairly stocky builds. Eyes with thick eyelashes, serene face, resting on its four legs, slightly face toward left shoulder, with flames borne over the legs, its tail freely laid on rear left foot. Displayed exquisitely upon a red silk and blue metallic silk covered hard cushion. Sheep are the eighth animal of the Chinese zodiac, and a symbol of filial piety, as the lambs are thought to kneel while their mothers suckle them.