Of square form, the base surmounted by two intertwined back-to-back dragons, each dragon with dynamic musculature and a ferocious face including a wide-open jaw showcasing sharp fangs, a large snout and bulging eyes, the bodies scaly and with large flowing manes, a hole is drilled in the centre for holding a silk tassel, the seal face bears the six-character inscription ‘wu fu wu dai tang bao’ (Treasure from the Hall of the Five Blessings and Five Generations), the stone of a light spinach green jade tone with dark brown inclusions throughout.

Official jade seals of the Qing Dynasty court are the embodiment of Imperial authority. Typically, they are carved from a single piece of jade and contain a dragon, or group of dragons, situated on a square-form base.

The current jade seal is of a large size, even-coloured stone, and displays well-carved dragons. The inscription on the base of this carving is associated with a group of important jade seals made for the Qianlong Emperor (reign 1736-1795) during the late 1780’s.

In 1780, the Qianlong Emperor wanted to mark several milestones in his life. In addition to turning 70 years old, he also wanted to commemorate his 45 years on the Imperial throne. In 1784, the Qianlong Emperor also had his first great-great-grandson. As a result, he commissioned a set of nine seals of various sizes with the inscription ‘wu fu wu dai tang bao’ – Treasure from the Hall of the Five Blessings and Five Generations.

Collectors will have a special opportunity to view this exceptional work at three previews across Canada:

Vancouver | March 31 - April 8

Toronto | April 11 - April 22

Montreal | April 25 - April 28