A Chinese White Jade Chilong Dragon Belt Buckle

Qing dynasty (1644-1912), 18th or 19th century, white jade finely carved with a dragon head hook and raised chilong dragon on handle, reverse side is smooth with raised circular medallion at far end.

5 1/8 x 1 1/4 x 1 1/4 in.

From the Collection of Helen Rindlbacher Ward, and by descent
Helen Rindlbacher Ward was born in Shanghai in 1936 to German parents, her father was one of the few foreigners who worked at the Chinese Aluminium Rolling Mills, Ltd company. Her family returned to Germany in 1955, and Helen moved to the United States in 1965 after marrying an Army officer. The Chinese artworks in this collection were all acquired in Shanghai during the 1930s-1950s.

A few light, short surface scratches to edge at underside; small nick to one ear of large dragon; possible old break or crack to snout of smaller dragon visible under UV light.