Jade. China, Eastern Zhou Dynasty (770 – 256 BC)
Very elegantly formed "knot opener", called xi, although the question remains whether this jade is rather a jewelry pendant, as this very pointy end could be the result of the artfully designed composition. The body of the kui dragon (kuilong) forms a circle in which the center is a dragon head. The form is typically archaic with anvil-shaped chin and nose, the tongue sticking out with spirals. Also in spiral form are the mane and all attachments, arched tail with pointy end. On the inside curve of the tail is a little phoenix. Finely incised ornament displays spirals and grid patterns. White jade with some age characteristics as well as remains of cinnabar.
HEIGHT 10,6 CM
From an old Austran colletion. Formerly acquired from R.H. Investment Comp.Ltd. London, between 1996- 1997
Age determination: Univ. Prof. Dr. Filippo Salviati