Xu Xiao Yong’s interpretation of the guardian of the north heightens the surrealism of a tortoise girdled by a snake. A customary depiction derived from myth and wordplay, inspired sculpting and fine pewter exaggerates the contrast between slithering serpent and steadfast tortoise.

The Black Tortoise, representative of winter, midnight, and the element of water, also claims the attributes of endurance, stability and wisdom. Its domed shell is symbolic of the celestial vault, its flat belly the earthly plane.


About the collection
Xu Xiao Yong, lauded as one of China’s top sculptors, presents his interpretation of the Four Symbols, benevolent guardians of the cosmos.