Up for auction/sale is an exceptionally rare and historically fascinating Chinese scholar's jade seal, confidently dated to the Yuan or Ming Dynasty. This piece represents the pinnacle of ancient literati culture and taste.Carving & Style: The seal features a masterfully hand-carved mythical beast (or spirit monkey) finial. Typical of the Yuan/Ming aesthetic, the carving emphasizes powerful, minimalist, and archaic lines rather than over-refined details, giving it a bold and sculptural presence. The edges of the square base are softly rounded and smooth, showing an exquisite, glossy antique patina ("熟旧感") that only centuries of handling can produce.Material: Carved from a choice piece of variegated jade, often referred to as "Qinghua" or black-and-white jade. The natural dark and ink-like inclusions create a stunning, accidental "shanshui" (ink-wash painting) effect within the stone, a feature highly coveted by Ming dynasty scholars who praised nature's own brushwork.The Inscription: The base is cleanly carved with three characters in archaic seal script: "白乐天" (Bai Letian), the famous courtesy name of Bai Juyi, one of the most celebrated poets of the Tang Dynasty. This was used as a "leisure seal" (闲章) by a later scholar to express a lifestyle of contentment and appreciation for literature. Traces of ancient red cinnabar paste (朱砂) still remain in the grooves.This is a museum-quality piece for serious collectors of early Chinese jade and scholar's studio objects.
Provenance:
Property acquired from estate sales, private collections, auctions, and consignments throughout Texas and the United States unless otherwise noted.

Condition:
Very good;used condition with light crazing and minor rubbing commensurate with age and use.

Measurements:
5 x 2.6 x 2.4cm;

Terms of Sale

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Specializing in Asian Art, Chinese Antiques, Estate Finds, Fine Collectibles, and Selected Trading Cards, we are passionate about connecting unique treasures with collectors around the world.

As collectors ourselves, we understand the importance of accurate descriptions, careful packing, honest communication, and excellent customer service.

Provenance:
Property acquired from estate sales, private collections, auctions, and consignments throughout Texas and the United States unless otherwise noted.

Condition:
Most items are antique, vintage, or previously owned and may show signs of age, use, and handling. Any significant condition issues will be described whenever possible. Please examine all photographs carefully.

We are not experts in every field, but all descriptions are provided honestly and to the best of our knowledge.

Measurements:
Please refer to the photographs and item specifics for dimensions.

Shipping:
We carefully package all items and typically ship within 1–3 business days after payment is received. We gladly combine shipping whenever possible to help reduce costs.

Fragile items are packed with extra care using professional packing materials, including double-boxing when appropriate.

Returns:
We want you to be happy with your purchase. Returns are accepted within 14 days of delivery, provided the item is returned in the same condition as received.

Customer Service:
Authenticity and customer satisfaction are important to us. We stand behind every item we sell and strive to represent each piece as accurately as possible.

We value every customer and strive to provide honest descriptions, fair pricing, secure packing, and excellent communication. If there is ever a problem with your order, please contact us first and we will do our best to make it right.

Thank you for your business and happy collecting!

Black Tortoise Antiques
Asian Art • Chinese Antiques • Estate Finds • Fine Collectibles



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