White Jade Dragon Plaque, Warring States

Pendant of carved natural jade with white tone and patina "沁色" (qìn sè) produced by antiquity. The outer profile is trimmed with spiral shapes, as is the relief pattern on the surface, curling between the shapes. The face faces backwards and is attached to a limb. The purpose of this type of figure was to ward off evil spirits. In good condition.

Over the Han dynasty, jades became even more associated with the upper classes, being present on festivities and exhibitions. The elegant geometrical shapes carved on scrolls provided a more symbolic than functional use with their elaborated endings. The tradition continued through time and remained relevant during the Qing dynasty. 

Size: 8.6 x 11.9 cm; Thickness: 1.2 cm; Weight: 70 g

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.