Qing Dynasty Tianhuang Stone Square Seal with Dragon Finial, carved by Lin Gao, 18th century

拍品描述

Dimensions and Weight: Height 7 cm (2.76 in, 0.23 ft), Width 5.4 cm (2.13 in, 0.18 ft), Weight 292 g Condition and Provenance: Well preserved with a warm and refined Tianhuang stone surface. The dragon finial, seal body, and carved inscription remain clear and complete, with natural signs of age. From a private collection in New York, USA Description: This exceptional square seal is carved from fine Tianhuang stone, featuring a warm honey-yellow color with a dense, smooth, and slightly translucent texture. The stone displays a refined natural glow and represents the finest qualities of Tianhuang material. The seal is carved in a balanced square form with a dignified and elegant appearance. The top features a three-dimensional dragon-form mythical beast finial, with an expressive face, raised head, flowing whiskers, detailed scales, and carefully rendered carving throughout. The powerful creature stands firmly on the platform, showing strong movement and vitality through the sculpted muscles, mane, and curled tail. The edge of the seal platform is decorated with a continuous rope-twist pattern, demonstrating refined craftsmanship. The four sides of the seal body are delicately carved with layered ocean-wave motifs in shallow relief, creating a graceful and elegant decorative effect. One side is inscribed in elegant running script with “Spring of Gengchen, carved by Lin Gao.” The original aged hemp cord remains attached, enhancing the historical character of the piece. The seal face is engraved with multiple characters in Zhuan script, featuring balanced composition, smooth lines, and confident knife work that reflect the refined style of Qing dynasty seal carving. Lin Gao was a renowned early Qing dynasty seal artist known for his elegant and sophisticated carving style. Combining exceptional Tianhuang stone, masterful carving techniques, and celebrated seal artistry, this work represents a rare and highly collectible example of Qing dynasty Tianhuang seal carving.

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