東漢 玉螭虎紋璏

carved to the top in high relief with a large sinuous chihulong accompanied by its young clambering on the edge, the stone of a pale celadon colour with calcified areas

There are minor bruises and nicks along the edges, as consistent with age. There are also expected areas of calcification. The scabbard slide is otherwise in overall good condition.
"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."

白玉，局部雞骨白，玉質瑩潤，拋光細膩，有玻璃光。璏面高浮雕一隻扭曲盤臥的螭虎，並以簡潔流暢的陰線刻表現細節，另一隻小螭虎從璏面左側鑽出，與之兩兩相望，典型的東漢雙螭虎形象。兩簷均向下淺淺彎曲，底面有褐色鐵沁。

許慎在《說文解字》中稱：「璏，劍鼻玉也。」 劍鼻是指劍鞘上供貫組帶以懸繫之處，因此玉劍璏即指安於劍鞘外的玉製劍扣。這種璏式佩劍法在中國的東周兩漢時期十分流行。