A HORSE-HOOF SHAPED JADE ORNAMENT NEOLITHIC PERIOD, HONGSHAN CULTURE CA. 3500 BC

of circular tapered form hollowed in the centre, the smoothly patinated stone of a variegated grey and light brown colour with darker undertones

There is some surface wear and overall weathering, consistent with age and type. There are a few minute nibblings or nicks around the rims, some with tiny infills (showing under UV), as well as small minute crackles that have been secured with wax but there does not appear to be any major break. The patina and colour of the jade are particularly attractive.
"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."

A larger ornament of this form, in the British Museum, London, is illustrated in Jessica Rawson, Chinese Jades from the Neolithic to the Qing, London, 1995, pl. 1:2, where the author notes that although the exact function of this type of ornament is a matter of speculation, they are commonly found in tombs near the head of the occupant, hence they may have served as hair ornaments, p. 116.