A JADE BELTHOOK WESTERN HAN DYNASTY

the terminal in the form of a horned dragon-head, the curved shaft carved with a raised band, the reverse with a tab for attachment, the stone of a pale primrose tone mottled with burnet inclusions

The top of the arc of the belt hook (opposite the button) has a few old minute nicks to the edges, but is in otherwise very 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."

The present belthook is notable for its elegant proportions and refined carving. This type of hook were usually made of metal and is believed to have become popular during the Warring States when the costumes of the northern nomads were deemed more practical for warfare than the traditional loose Chinese garments. For a closely related gold version see one excavated in Guangzhou, illustrated in Excavation of the Han Tombs at Guangzhou, vol. II, Beijing, 1981, pl. XLI. Compare also a related example, but with more elaborate carved decoration, included in the exhibition Treasures from the Han, The Empress Palace, Singapore, 1990, p. 80; and two more stylised versions of rectangular section, one in the British Museum, London, published in Jessica Rawson, Chinese Jade from the Neolithic to the Qing, London, 1994, p. 307, fig. 1, and the other sold in our London rooms, 11^th December 1984, lot 74.