A WHITE JADE SNUFF BOTTLE

well hollowed, of flattened spade shape with a waisted neck and everted slightly concave mouth, all supported on a narrow flat base, each face carved in low relief, one featuring two horses resting side-by-side, the reverse with a seven-character inscription, the stone of an even white color with faint russet inclusions

Collection of David Dunkerley.
Sotheby's Hong Kong, 29th April 1992, lot 542.

Two miniscule chips on the exterior mouth rim, one as part of a natural inclusion, both barely noticeable. In otherwise excellent condition.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The inscription can be translated as: 'an icy heart in a jade bottle', taken from the last line of a poem by the Tang dynasty poet Wang Changlin, where the phrase was used to describe noble interests and aspirations.