Loquat yellow field-yellow stone seal with handle of Chihu looking left rear

Qing dynasty (1644-1911)
Length：4.5cm
Width：4.5cm
Height：9cm
Weight：375g

The boxy seal was in standard shape and quality. It showed loquat yellow with some auburn shade. There were some clear radish veins. This seal was in good quality due to sleek and translucent texture.

The seal handle displayed a squatting Chihu looking left rear. The Chihu got features of muscular eyes, forward vision, spirited look, exposed teeth and open mouth with glossy ganoderma. Two forked and curled horns were combined with a string of hair and were closely toward the back. Besides, there were traits of hunch back, curled forktail, sharp claws, and powerful muscle. These traits showed a forceful, lively, and mighty image.

Low relief was used on four seal sides. A dragon-shaped beast roaming in the sky performed delicate and amusing carving.

Seven words were incised on seal bottom by relief carving. “Millions of green tussock serve as a foil to a stunning red flower” was written by Wang Anshi of Song dynasty (960-1279) in his poem, “Sing of pomegranate blossom”.