East Asia, China, Qing Dynasty, ca. 19th century CE. An authentic carved bone stamp seal in the form of a spade coin, suspended on a modern nylon cord with an acrylic bead. Modeled after square-foot spade coins from the early Zhou Dynasty, these coins feature square feet and a central hole. This likely functioned as both a seal for signing and as a toggle counterweight for a tobacco pouch or other item hung from a belt. Both actual coins and representations, like this carving, were popular as talismans symbolizing abundance and good fortune. Size: 1.79" L x 1.2" W (4.5 cm x 3 cm); cord: 8.25" L (21 cm)

Provenance: private Truchas, New Mexico, USA collection, acquired early 2000's

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#189295

    Condition:
  • Cracks radiating across seal face and along the edges. Red staining from dyed cord. Softening to carved motifs. Cord and bead are modern / vintage and not original to the seal.

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by Artemis Fine Arts
January 30, 2025 8:00 AM MST
686 S. Taylor Ave., #108
Louisville, CO, US 80027

Artemis Fine Arts

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$300 $999 $50
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$2,000 $4,999 $250
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$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
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$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000