Neolithic Hongshan River-Milled Jade C-Shaped Dragon (7500–2900 BCE)

拍品描述

Dimensions: H. 21 cm (approx. 8.27 in / 0.69 ft); W. 17 cm (approx. 6.69 in / 0.56 ft); Weight: 884 g (approx. 31.18 oz); Neolithic Period, Hongshan Culture, 7500–2900 BCE，Condition & Provenance: Preserved in overall intact condition. The river-polished jade displays a soft pale green tone with naturally distributed reddish-brown surface accretions and areas of weathering. The dragon head, raised dorsal crest, sweeping C-shaped body, rounded tail, and suspension perforation remain clearly defined. Private Collection, Washington State, USA.Description: This monumental C-shaped dragon represents one of the most recognizable sculptural forms associated with Hongshan jade culture. Carved from naturally river-polished jade traditionally associated with the Xiuyan region of Liaoning, the stone displays a dense, softly lustrous pale green body accented throughout by irregular reddish-brown surface deposits and tonal variations. The dragon is conceived as a powerful, sweeping capital-C form, its substantial body smoothly rounded and carefully finished without sharp transitions. The upper end is carved as a stylized dragon head with an elongated, slightly upturned muzzle. Fine incised lines articulate the mouth and facial details, while a prominent raised crest rises from the crown and extends along the upper neck, lending a strong sculptural profile to an otherwise remarkably restrained design. The lower body curves inward to terminate in a thick, rounded tail, creating a balanced visual relationship between the projecting head and tightly swept lower section. A circular perforation drilled through one side of the body provides a suspension point. Weighing 884 grams, the carving has an unusually substantial physical presence, with broad, rounded surfaces that emphasize the natural character of the jade. The contrast between its muted green stone and scattered reddish-brown surface markings further enhances its archaic visual character. The C-shaped jade dragon ranks among the defining forms of Hongshan jade art, combining a highly abstracted dragon head with an elongated curved body and inward-sweeping tail to create an image of exceptional simplicity and sculptural power. Its large scale, substantial proportions, complete C-shaped silhouette, and strongly modeled head give this example the commanding visual presence associated with monumental Hongshan-style jade dragons.

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