Neolithic Hongshan Culture Calcified “Chicken-Bone White” Jade Pig-Dragon, Zhulong (7500–2900 BCE)

拍品描述

Dimensions: H. 10.5 cm (approx. 4.13 in / 0.34 ft); W. 7 cm (approx. 2.76 in / 0.23 ft); net weight 300 g (approx. 10.58 oz); Neolithic Period, Hongshan Culture, 7500–2900 BCE，Condition & Provenance: Preserved in overall intact condition. The calcified “chicken-bone white” jade ranges from grayish white to creamy white, with extensive dark gray and brown-gray earthen deposits, fine natural surface fissuring, and localized soil accretions. The pig-form head, broad ears, incised muzzle, large central perforation, and smaller suspension hole remain clearly defined. The surface displays weathering, wear, and age-related textural variation throughout. Provenance: Private Collection, Illinois, USA.Description: This substantial pig-dragon, or zhulong, is carved from heavily calcified “chicken-bone white” jade with a predominantly grayish-white ground. Extensive areas of dark gray and brown-gray deposits spread irregularly across the surface, contrasting dramatically with the pale stone and giving the carving a strongly aged visual character. The sculpture is formed as a compact, curled C-shaped body surmounted by a highly stylized pig-form head. The body is thick and rounded, with smoothly worked outer contours and a large circular perforation through its center. The upper section is dominated by a pair of broad, prominently raised ears that give the profile a bold sculptural presence. The eye is articulated with lightly incised concentric circular lines, while the broad projecting muzzle is defined by a series of parallel horizontal grooves. A narrow transverse opening beneath the muzzle visually separates the head from the curled lower body. The central perforation is substantial, with thick surrounding walls; close-up views show visible working traces and dark deposits within the bore. A second, smaller circular suspension hole is drilled behind the head. The carving combines rounded sculptural modeling, drilling, and restrained linear incision, while repeated polishing has produced the softly curved edges characteristic of the overall form. The contrast between the pale calcified surface and the extensive dark deposits gives the object considerable visual depth. Its massive curled body, oversized ears, circular eye treatment, projecting muzzle, and large central opening combine to create a particularly distinctive interpretation of the classic pig-dragon form.

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