Dimensions: Height 12 cm Wide 6,3 cm Depth 2,2 cm
Weight: 285,2 grams

Carved from a mottled green nephrite with russet inclusions, the recumbent horned beast is shown with head raised and turned slightly to the side, its legs tucked beneath the body. The surface is finely incised with archaistic scrolls and geometric motifs echoing late Zhou and Han bronzes. Two small drilled apertures at the tail indicate it may have been worn or suspended as an ornament. The underside is smoothly polished with the feet neatly rendered.

This archaistic jade carving reflects the intense antiquarian taste of the Song dynasty, when scholars and patrons collected and emulated ancient ritual forms. Such zoomorphic plaques were used as belt ornaments or as auspicious desk pieces, evoking mythical creatures of protection and power.

Comparative examples:
For related Song jade beasts see Compendium of Chinese Jades, Palace Museum Beijing, vol. II, ; and Christie’s New York, 20 March 2019, lot