the pommel of circular form, incised around the central aperture with swirls, surrounded by a band of 'grain' motifs; the wei of rectangular form, carved to the top with a stylised beast mask

璏：
購於1981年

Both are in good condition. There are expected minute flakes to the edges of both, the largest a shallow flake measuring approx. 0.3 cm to the reverse of the scabbard slide. The catalogue illustration is warmer than the actual colour of the stones.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

玉穀紋劍首，青白玉，玉質瑩潤。外區穀紋，中區微凸，陰線刻四組渦紋，中心圓孔後鑽，紋飾被破壞，背面為納劍柄的溝槽和小孔。該玉劍首流行於秦漢之際，廣州西漢南越王墓出土八件，可知中間完整的陰刻紋飾應為四組渦紋和細密菱格紋，見《西漢南越王墓》，上冊，北京，1991年，頁122，以及前述出處，下冊，圖版70-75。

同類型玉劍首，亦見湖南長沙瀏城橋一號墓出土，錄於古方，《中國出土玉器全集》，卷10，2005年，頁196。亦見江蘇揚州邗江甘泉老虎墩東漢墓出土，載於《文物》，1991年第10期，頁67，圖10：5。另見一劍首，曾入羅樾舊藏，售於巴黎蘇富比2016年12月15日，編號70。