White jade figure ‘Beast’, Shang dynasty

Milky white jade with ochre mineral alterations on the tail and limbs. The piece depicts a mythological creature in a crouching position, with a robust body, bent limbs and a short, upward-curving tail. The bas-relief carving is noteworthy, defining the musculature and facial features through archaic lines and volutes. The back features openwork ridges and a perforation in the tail. Shang dynasty (c. 1600–1046 BC) or later.

Size: 3.8 x 10.2 x 2.5 cm

Weight: 141 g

Provenance:

· Collection of Tommy Lam, Hong Kong, since 1980.