A CHINESE WHITE JADE RETICULATED DRAGON PLAQUE, 18TH/19TH CENTURY

拍品描述

A CHINESE WHITE JADE RETICULATED DRAGON PLAQUE, 18TH/19TH CENTURY The rectangular plaque is carved from white jade in openwork relief, the central field framed by a plain, polished border. Within this reserve, a sinuous dragon extends across the composition, its elongated body worked with finely incised scale patterning and articulated limbs, the carving allowing the dark negative space behind to heighten the delicacy of the reticulated design. The dragon is shown amongst curling scrollwork and pierced foliate ornament, its head turned dynamically within the dense arrangement of tendrils. The contrast between the smooth outer frame and the intricate interior carving gives the plaque a strong architectural quality, while the carefully cut apertures lend the piece lightness and visual depth. In Chinese art, the dragon is among the most potent auspicious motifs, associated with imperial authority, vitality and cosmic power. On jade objects, the motif carries particular resonance, combining the symbolic strength of the creature with the purity and durability traditionally attributed to the stone. Dating to the 18th/19th century, this plaque reflects the Qing taste for technically accomplished jade carving, especially the use of reticulation to create layered, almost lace-like surfaces. Compact in scale yet richly worked, it would have served as a refined decorative or personal adornment, displaying both material quality and skilled craftsmanship. Length x Width: 6.7 x 2.9cm

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