~ Carved Nephrite Jade Seal Surmounted by Buddhist Lion with Cub and Brocade Ball, Chinese, Republic Period ~
Historical Context
The pairing of a large Buddhist lion with a small cub on its back is one of the most enduring auspicious puns in Chinese decorative art. The homophony of "large lion and small lion" (dashi xiaoshi, 大獅小獅) with "taishi shaoshi" (太師少師), the two highest honorary titles in the imperial civil service, gave the motif its meaning as a wish that both father and son would achieve the highest rank. The theme was popular from the Ming dynasty onward and remained in continuous production through the Qing dynasty and into the Republic period. Chinese seals of this scale and type, with a carved beast knop above a large inscribed block base, served as official, scholarly, or commemorative objects. The raised inscription on the side face is likely to identify the owner, the purpose, or a literary dedication, and professional translation would add considerably to the piece's story and potential saleability.
Dark and mottled nephrite, sometimes referred to as "grey jade," was used in Chinese carving workshops from the Qing period onward, valued for its understated, scholarly quality in contrast to the brighter pale celadon or white stones associated with court taste.
Condition Report
The piece is intact, with general surface dust and minor handling marks consistent with age.
~ Dimensions ~
One has a length of 5.5 inches (14 cm), a depth of 3 inches (7.6 cm) & a height of 4.25 inches (10.7 cm). It weighs 1.79g
~ Condition ~
The piece is in great condition with no cracks or chips.
#1206
