A RUBY-GLASS 'DOUBLE-DRAGON' SEAL QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG PERIOD

of square form, surmounted by a pair of chilong clambering along the edge of the seal in pursuit of each other with their eyes locked, the seal face carved crisply in intaglio with the characters Wei shan yi wei bao ('being virtuous is venerated'), the glass of crimson tone mixed with black and deeper maroon coloured swirls

The overall condition is very good with only a minute bruise on one of the vertical corner edges, a 6 mm nick along the seal face edge, and a few burst air bubbles in the glass (the largest 8 mm on one side).
"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."

Imperial seals carefully designed and executed during the Qianlong era reached unprecedented heights in artistic craftsmanship with characteristics unmatched by earlier dynasties. Although seals were made in large quantities from a wide range of materials,  ones made of red glass are extremely rare.

Wei shan yi wei bao ('being virtuous is venerated') was derived from Daxue ('The Great Learning'), one of the Four Books that describes many themes of Chinese philosophy and political thought.  The phrase comes from a story from the Book of Chu - when an ambassador from the Chu kingdom was asked about the renowned jades from his home, he answered "The Kingdom of Chu never considers our beautiful and valuable jades as treasures. Instead, what we value the most, are our virtuous men."