Qing Dynasty White Jade Carved Dragon Belt Hook

Finely carved from white jade of even tone and lustrous translucency, the belt hook is modeled with a dragon-head terminal, its eyes boldly rendered and mane flowing backward in elegant ridges. The arched shaft terminates in a hook and is fitted with an oval button on the reverse for attachment. The sides are further decorated with openwork chilong dragons clambering along the body, their sinuous forms creating a dynamic interplay with the larger dragon head. Expertly carved and finely polished throughout, the piece displays the refined craftsmanship and auspicious imagery favored in Qing dynasty jade carving.

Belt hooks were among the most important accessories of traditional Chinese dress, originating as early as the Warring States period and remaining highly prized through the Qing dynasty. Jade examples were especially esteemed for their association with status, refinement, and scholarly taste. The present example combines elegant proportions, fine workmanship, and a classic dragon motif, making it both an attractive decorative object and a collectible work of art.

Length 5 1/4 inches (13.5 cm).

清代 白玉雕龍首帶鉤

白玉質，玉色潔白溫潤，質地細膩凝潤，局部可見天然玉理。帶鉤作龍首形，鉤首高昂，雙目圓睜，鬃髮後披，神態威嚴而不失古雅。鉤身呈弧形，背面設橢圓形鈕，以供繫帶佩用。鉤體兩側透雕螭龍攀附其間，小龍曲身回首，與主體龍首相互呼應，增添層次變化與裝飾趣味。整器琢磨精細，線條流暢，拋光瑩潤，展現清代玉雕工藝追求典雅華貴與吉祥寓意的藝術特色。

帶鉤為中國古代重要服飾配件，最早可追溯至戰國時期，至清代仍為文人士大夫與貴族階層所珍愛。玉製帶鉤尤受推崇，不僅具有實用功能，更被視為身份、品味與收藏修養之象徵。本件造型古雅端莊，雕工精緻，兼具陳設與收藏價值。

長 5 1/4 英寸（13.5 厘米）。

For condition report, please contact the Asian Art Department.