A SUPERB AND RARE 'QILONG' SEAL QING DYNASTY, 17TH / 18TH CENTURY

of long square section, the translucent stone of a golden-honey tone delicately carved to the top in low relief with a sinuous qilong dragon writhing amid turbulent swirling clouds, with a further mythical beast rising from below, the details intricately and precisely carved and smoothly finished, the carving extending down upon the top of the sides cleverly utilising the darker inclusions of the stone, the seal face left uncarved

Sotheby's Hong Kong, 15th November 1989, lot 523.

Sotheby's Hong Kong: Twenty Years 1973-1999, Hong Kong, 1993, pl 391.

The seal has only minor expected nicks to the edges and is in very good condition. There are 3 minute nicks to the edges of the seal face- 2mm, 1mm and 1mm. There is a 2 mm nick to the spine and a 1 mm nick to the spine of the qilong. The actual color is slightly less orange and a touch more golden in color.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The low relief carving of the qilong writhing amid cloud swirls has been very delicately rendered.  The