China, Han dynasty (202 BC-220 AD)
Of compressed trapezoidal shape with gracefully arched upper edge. Both sides are beautifully adorned with the motif of two Chi dragons, with the head of one dragon protruding above the upper edge. The bodies of the dragons are sinuous and perfectly arranged. The base is pierced with one deep hole between two smaller ones. The stone is semi translucent, and of a celadon hue with russet inclusions to the one side, while the other side is dark brown with some nice russet and reddish spots.
As art historian, Alain R. Truong, points out that with its connotations of magical protective powers, jade was a particularly appropriate material for weaponry fittings. It was believed to enhance the material strength and force of both the weapon and its wielder. During the Western Han dynasty, jade sword fittings with three-dimensional chi dragon were particularly popular. See J. Rawson, Chinese Jade from the Neolithic to the Qing, London, 1996, p.294.
Condition: Very good condition with expected traces of weathering and wear as well as natural inclusions to the stone.
Provenance: Canadian private collection.
Weight: 48 g
Dimensions: Length 5.2 cm
AUCTION RESULT COMPARISON:
Type: Related
Price: Sold at 1,600,000 HKD, approx. 189,000 EUR
Auction: Bonhams, The Sze Tang Collection of Chinese Jades, 5th of April 2016, Lot 15.
Description: A pale green jade “chi” dragon sword chape, bi
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