Citrine Carved Recumbent Bear, Han Dynasty

拍品描述

Dimensions:Length 7cm (2‑3/4in), Height 3.5cm (1‑3/8in), Weight 109gCondition & Provenance:The crystal bear retains its complete original form, no heavy repairs or restorations. Natural mineral inclusions, golden‑brown iron‑stained veils and internal cloud‑like silt‑type encrustations run throughout the translucent citrine matrix, inherent to the stone. Ancient tool‑cut carving traces remain visible within recessed details. Surfaces carry soft, mellow antique polish and accumulated age‑related patina. Minor ancient wear is present on raised contact points such as snout, ears and paw joints, consistent with burial and long‑term handling. Hollowed cavity is visible on the underside, typical of early Chinese crystal animal carving. This piece originates from a private California ancient‑art collection and is offered at public auction for the first time.description:This is a fine Han‑dynasty citrine carving of a recumbent bear. The beast crouches low with limbs neatly folded underneath its torso, head raised forward in a powerful, alert bearing. Sculpted with bold, succinct ancient carving techniques, the work renders full musculature, defined facial features, rounded ears and stout paws. The translucent golden‑yellow citrine exhibits rich natural internal inclusions, lending warm layered visual depth to the figure. Bears held important symbolic meaning during the Han period, representing strength, vitality and spiritual protective power. The underside features characteristic hollowing work for weight reduction. This rare crystal animal exemplifies the high‑level lapidary craftsmanship for hard translucent stones of the Han dynasty.

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