Greenish-white Jade Chi-head Belt Hook

This belt hook found among the personal accessories of Prince Zhuang was used to secure a leather belt. The belt hook was carved in the form of a dragon head to represent the legendary hornless dragon Chi (螭). The carving is fluid and dynamic. Another smaller dragon is carved on the shaft of the hook and looks towards its larger twin. The entire piece is carved in the round or in high relief, a standard technique in early Ming times.