Carved jadeite belt ornament, ‘Dragon’, Qing dynasty

Two-coloured jadeite with intense shades of green and white. Slightly curved rectangular, it shows on the front an elongated mythological beast with a sinuous body and curling tail, surrounded by scrolls of branches ending in volutes. The base, with a central rectangular body, designed to be pierced by a belt, is flanked by two large scrolls arranged one on each side. 

Historical records mention the use of jade elements as ornaments for clothing as a symbol of power and status at court. Qing Dynasty (1644 - 1912).

Size: 3.2 x 2.3 x 7.3 cm

Weight: 93.6 g