Qing Dynasty Qianlong Period Tianhuang Stone Seal with Auspicious Mythical Beast Finial, Together with a Shoushan White Hibiscus Stone Imperial Inscription Seal Box (18th Century)

拍品描述

Dimensions & Weight: Seal: 6.5 cm L × 6.5 cm W × 9 cm H, weight 488 g (approx. 2.6 × 2.6 × 3.5 in, weight approx. 1.08 lbs; approx. 0.21 × 0.21 × 0.30 ft). Seal box: approx. 9 × 9 cm (approx. 3.5 × 3.5 in; approx. 0.30 × 0.30 ft). Qing Dynasty Qianlong Period (18th Century)，Condition & Provenance: The seal is preserved in excellent overall condition. The Tianhuang stone has a warm honey-yellow tone with a refined texture, smooth surface, and naturally developed luster. The mythical beast finial is finely carved with clear details and subtle traces of historical use. The original seal box remains together with the seal and is crafted from Shoushan white hibiscus stone, featuring well-preserved high-relief carvings. The Qianlong imperial poem inscription and seals on the box cover remain clearly visible. Provenance: Private Collection, New Jersey, USA，Description: This imperial-style seal is carved from Tianhuang stone, one of the most prized materials in Chinese seal art. The stone has a translucent, creamy honey-yellow appearance with a delicate texture and a restrained natural glow, representing the finest quality of seal stone. The square seal body is topped with a three-dimensional mythical beast finial. The beast is powerfully modeled with a raised head, layered flowing mane, strong limbs, and an elegant yet commanding presence. The carving is refined, smooth, and executed with mature craftsmanship. The sides of the seal platform are decorated with shallow carved wave and dragon motifs, creating a dignified imperial aesthetic. One side bears an incised running-script inscription reading “Made at Jiuhu Shanfang in the Ninth Year of Qianlong.” The seal face is finely carved with vermilion characters in seal script, framed by stylized kui-dragon decoration with a carefully balanced composition. The accompanying seal box is finely carved from Shoushan white hibiscus stone in a square form. The entire exterior is decorated with deep relief carvings of auspicious beasts among swirling clouds, showing remarkable depth, precision, and craftsmanship. The inner panel of the lid features an imperial poem attributed to the Qianlong Emperor with a small red “Qian” seal, while the side bears the vermilion inscription “Qianlong Imperial Treasure.” Preserved as an original matched set, this Tianhuang seal and imperial-style seal box represent the highest level of Chinese scholar’s objects, combining exceptional stone carving artistry, imperial aesthetics, and significant collectible importance.

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