Nephrite Jade Belt Hook with Dragon and Internal Russet Inclusions – Late Qing to Early Republic Period DESCRIPTION A finely carved Chinese nephrite jade belt hook of traditional arched form, terminating in a stylized dragon head. The jade is of pale celadon-white tone with pronounced areas of warm russet coloration. These are natural internal inclusions within the jade body, visible beneath the surface due to the stone’s translucency, and not surface staining. Under light, these inclusions create depth and layered tonal variation across the piece. The upper surface is carved in low relief with a sinuous dragon motif, its body flowing along the length of the hook in a balanced and continuous composition. The carving is fluid and controlled, with softly rounded edges and a consistent, well-finished surface. The underside retains a rectangular mounting section with a recessed slot, consistent with traditional belt hook construction. The jade presents attractively in natural light, with the internal inclusions becoming more pronounced and giving the piece a strong visual presence. A well-executed and visually compelling example of a classic Chinese jade form, distinguished by its material character and internal structure. Conditions of Sale By placing a bid, the buyer enters into a binding contract and agrees to the following terms: 1. Shipment, Delivery & Risk Delivery obligations are fulfilled upon transfer of the lot to a professional carrier for shipment to the address provided through the Catawiki platform. Official carrier tracking records, including delivery confirmation, delivery attempts, customs notifications, and status updates, constitute conclusive evidence of shipment and delivery progress. Risk transfers to the buyer upon dispatch. Claims of non-receipt that contradict carrier tracking confirmation will not invalidate the transaction. 2. Customs, Refusal & Contract Termination All import duties, VAT, customs clearance fees, brokerage charges, and related governmental assessments are solely the buyer’s responsibility. Refusal to accept delivery for any reason — including refusal to pay customs duties or import charges — constitutes: • Voluntary refusal of performance • Material breach of contract • Immediate termination of the sale in favor of the seller In such cases, the seller reserves the right to: • Request full payment release from Catawiki • Recover all return shipping fees, storage fees, administrative charges, carrier penalties, and related costs • Apply a reasonable restocking fee where permitted • Decline any obligation to reship the lot Returned parcels caused by refusal, non-payment of customs, failure to collect, or incorrect address remain entirely at the buyer’s risk and expense. 3. Condition & Description All lots are sold “as is” and “as photographed.” Photographs form part of the description and accurately represent visible condition at the time of listing. Age-related wear, patina, oxidation, glaze variation, craquelure, firing marks, surface irregularities, minor losses, restorations, manufacturing variations, and material inconsistencies are inherent characteristics of antique, vintage, and collectible objects across all categories and do not constitute defects. The absence of reference to condition issues does not imply perfect condition. No warranty is made that any lot is free from restoration, repair, alteration, or replacement unless expressly stated in writing. 4. Attribution & Opinion Any statement regarding age, origin, period, maker, material, cultural attribution, or historical context reflects informed opinion based on experience and research. Such statements are not guarantees or warranties. Differences in scholarly opinion, stylistic interpretation, market reassessment, or third-party evaluation do not constitute grounds for cancellation, dispute, or refund. 5. We pride ourselves on taking the time to pack well, however that does not reduce the risk of damage or breakage to absolute zero. Bidding is with this in mind. By bidding, the buyer acknowledges full acceptance of these Conditions of Sale.