Calligraphy weight, China, Qianlong period (1736-1795) Calligraphy weight consisting of a rosewood base into which is inserted an ivory plate finely carved with a set of nine dragons in pursuit of the sacred pearl, intertwined against a background of clouds and foaming waves at the base. Total dimensions: 32.3 x 5.6 x 3.5 cm; plate dimensions: 31 x 4.5 x 0.7 cm; gross weight: 550 g A crack at the base, traces of glue, plate slightly detached from the base. The decoration known as "Jiu Lóng Bì", 九龍壁 is inspired by the glazed stoneware nine-dragon wall located in the Forbidden City and found in various imperial palaces and gardens.