A RARE AND LARGE CALCIFIED JADE ZHULONG ('PIG DRAGON') 紅山文化 玉豬龍 Neolithic period, Hongshan culture (4700-2500 BC) of generous proportions, the iconic coiled body is further accentuated with a superbly rendered wrinkled snout, the signature slit below the sealed lips terminates before meeting the central perforation, the neck is drilled with two holes for suspension, the stone is a white-grey tone with natural flaws. Size: 13.1 x 10.3 x 3.8cm NOTE Renowned for its considerable size, this sculpture portrays a zhulong, also known as a pig-dragon. This term is a contemporary description of the creature's upturned snout, prominent bulging eyes, and coiled body. Zhulong are regarded as the prototypes for later depictions of mythological dragons in Chinese art. These intriguing creations originate from the enigmatic Hongshan culture, which thrived around 3500 BC and provides evidence of a complex belief system in supernatural forces. Jade zhulong sculptures have been unearthed at various tomb sites in Northern China, often found placed on the chests of the tomb occupants, indicating that they were likely worn as chest ornaments.