Pair of "Dragon and phoenix" jade combs, Western Han dynasty

Carved white jade with gold-toned flecks. The tines are broad, slightly rounded and flattened at the end. They are arranged next to the curved handle, which is decorated with incised scrolls and two dragon heads curling around the ends. These show, in great detail, a fierce expression with large open eyes, sinuous ears and mane, and the jaws displaying sharp fangs. At the top is a beautiful phoenix with curled feathers, head turned towards the wolf, intense gaze and curved beak.  Western Han Dynasty (206 BC - AD 8) or later.

Size: 4.2 x 0.5 x 8.1 cm; Total weight: 50 gr

Provenance: Collection of Tommy Lam, Hong Kong, from 1980.-Previous owner of lot: 48, (Imperial white jade "ziqiang buxi" seal, Qing dynasty, Qianlong period (1736 - 1795)) Auctioned: Important Hong Kong Collection, Tommy Lam - Asian Art. 25 October 2023. Darley Auctions.