宋至明 青白玉透雕螭龍紋環

deftly carved in openwork in the form of a large chilong coiling to form a disc, a smaller chilong clambering on its back, the translucent stone of pale yellowish-celadon colour mottled with a lightly calcified cloud inclusion

This rare disc is in overall good condition. There is some expected light surface wear in areas or occasional minor nibbling along the edges. The right side of the disc is somewhat slimmer and partly calcified with some cloud inclusions in the stone (shwoing on the illustration in the catalogue). The actual colour is consistent with the catalogue illustration.
"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."

璧，新石器時代始製，高古玉璧，至遲至宋代已有出土。古人以為玉璧乃祭天之禮器，被賦予深刻中國宇宙本源之意義。此璧所飾夔龍也可追源高古器物。參考東漢玉浮雕龍紋璧，如《中國玉器全集》，卷4，石家莊。1993年，圖版250。