Qing Dynasty (18th–19th Century) Shoushan Stone Imperial Seal with Five-Dragon Knob

拍品描述

Dimensions: 20 cm (7.9 inches) high, with a 15 x 15 cm (5.9 x 5.9 inches) square base, weighing 7000 grams (15.4 lbs), 18th-19th century. Condition and Provenance: Overall excellent. The Shoushan stone is a warm honey-yellow hue with a fine and dense texture. The surface retains natural signs of age with only minor wear, consistent with long-term display and use. The seal still bears traces of traditional cinnabar ink used for previous stamping, and the carved patterns are clearly defined. Provenance: Private collection, New York, USA. Description: This imposing square seal, carved from richly colored honey-yellow Shoushan stone, is large in size and finely polished. Its design is inspired by royal court seals and exudes grandeur. The top is carved with exquisite five-dragon motifs using high relief. The central dragon is majestic and powerful, with piercing eyes and an open mouth holding a pearl, displaying its imposing presence. It is surrounded by four lifelike dragons in different poses. A majestic dragon leaps and roars, weaving through a sea of clouds. The horns, whiskers, scales, and claws are meticulously detailed, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and rich layering. The seal base is adorned with beautiful patterns on all four sides. The upper edge features continuous cloud relief carvings, while the main body uses intricate geometric patterns as a base. Below symmetrical ancient phoenix motifs is a ring of symmetrical carvings. The phoenix motifs are fluid in line, ingeniously arranged, and harmoniously unified. The square seal face is engraved with seal script, the strokes deep and powerful, the characters flowing and beautiful. Traces of cinnabar, accumulated over time, remain on the characters and surface, highlighting its historical value. This impressive Shoushan stone seal combines round carving, high relief, low relief, and fine carving techniques, presenting a majestic dragon motif, exquisite decorative craftsmanship, and the grandeur of a Qing Dynasty imperial seal.

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