A RARE WHITE AND GREY JADE ‘DRAGON’ SEAL QING DYNASTY, KANGXI PERIOD

of square section, the variegated white and grey stone with the upper grey section skilfully rendered in openwork to depict a coiling dragon, the seal face carved with a four-character inscription reading ru Dao hua cheng

A French private collection, Bordeaux, by repute.

There are some expected minute nicks to the edges of the seal and the finial's extremities, as well as extensive surface wear to the seal face. The seal is in otherwise overall good condition. The catalogue illustration is a tinge redder than the actual colour of the stone.
"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."

This seal is noteworthy for the intricately carved details and sinuous body of the dragon that has been captured in openwork on a small scale. Furthermore, the carver has managed to skilfully compose the piece within the pebble to utilise its different tones and thus enhance the creature’s sense of vitality. Compare three white jade seals carved with related dragons, attributed to the Qianlong period, sold at Christie’s New York, 1st June 1990, lot 344; and another from the collection of Charlotte Horstmann, sold at Christie’s Hong Kong, 13th January 1987, lot 229.