Qing Dynasty Ministry of Rites Bronze Official Seal with Cylindrical Handle and Manchu-Chinese Script (19th Century)

拍品描述

Dimensions: Seal base 8 × 8 cm (3.1 × 3.1 in, 0.26 × 0.26 ft), total height 10.2 cm (4.0 in, 0.33 ft), weight 1311 g (2.89 lb); 19th-century Qing Dynasty official seal. Condition and Provenance: Excellent condition. The bronze seal body is intact, with a square base and cylindrical handle securely connected. The surface retains a rich, dark brown patina, with clearly visible natural oxidation marks and authentic signs of long-term official use. Traces of cinnabar are still visible inside the seal face, and the Manchu script is well-preserved. Provenance: Private collection, California, USA. Description: This Qing Dynasty Ministry of Rites official seal is cast entirely in bronze, with a square base and an upright cylindrical handle. The seal base measures 8 × 8 cm, the total height is 10.2 cm, and it weighs 1311 g. It is a standard official seal issued by a Qing Dynasty government office. The seal is well-preserved, with a clear structure and obvious signs of use. The bronze seal is thick and substantial, with a solid feel. The entire surface is covered with a deep, natural bronze patina, revealing slight signs of wear, areas of oxidation and blackening, and rounded edges formed by years of use. The seal is inscribed with the characters "Made by the Ministry of Rites," clearly indicating it is an official seal of the Ministry of Rites during the Qing Dynasty. Other inscriptions, including titles and corresponding Manchu characters, are finely engraved with consistent depth and exquisite craftsmanship, reflecting the official standards of Qing Dynasty official seals. The front of the seal features traditional Qing Dynasty double-sided seal script, adorned with a nine-character seal script combining Manchu and Han styles. The engraved lines are evenly arranged, the composition is rigorous, and the grooves still retain numerous traces of aged cinnabar, authentically reproducing the appearance of historical official seals. The Ministry of Rites of the Qing Dynasty was responsible for important ceremonial management and the bureaucratic system. This bronze seal, with its regular shape and complete inscription, possesses significant historical value and is highly collectible for collectors of Chinese epigraphy, official history, and Qing Dynasty official artifacts.

图片