Lot 3255. A massive Khotan-green jade seal with Manchu and Chinese inscriptions; 2.7 by 12.7 cm., 5 by 5 in. Estimate 250,000 — 300,000 HKD. Lot Sold 312,500 HKD. Courtesy Sotheby's.

of large square form, surmounted by a superbly carved pair of addorsed dragons, each powerfully carved with eyes bulging and nostrils flaring above curling whiskers and jaws bearing sharp fangs, the scales and flowing mane meticulously incised, the two scaly bodies tightly intertwined and crouching on the haunches, pierced through the centre with an aperture, the seal face carved with two inscriptions, one in Chinese and reapeated in Manchu, the stone of a deep forest green tone with natural veining.

Sotheby's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, Hong Kong, 08 april 2011