Ancient sword hilt ornament blends metalwork and jade craft

This artifact from the Warring States Period (475-221 BC) is an ornamental piece fixed to the top of a sword hilt. Crafted from gilded bronze and jade, it features a dynamic trio. A bronze dragon at the bottom is arched in motion and decorated with cloud motifs. A jade dragon with grain-seed decorations mirrors the bronze one. A bronze tiger on the top is poised powerfully, its jaws gripping a red agate bead.

As a status symbol in the Zhao State, it showcases the exceptional artistry of their metalwork and jade craftsmanship. Unearthed in a tomb in Handan, Hebei, the piece is now part of the Handan City Institute of Cultural Relics collection.