A YELLOW JADE SNUFF BOTTLE

very well hollowed, of flattened rectangular form with shoulders sloping to a cylindrical neck, resting on a neatly carved oval foot, the body carved in low relief with a continuous depiction of a brocade sash elaborately tied on one face, the brocade of a fine triangle-diaper pattern enclosed by a leiwen pattern trim, the stone of an even yellow color

Collection of Rear-Admiral C.S. Woodwright.
Sotheby's London, 14th December 1948, lot 37.
Sotheby's London, 17th December 1996, lot 371.

The bottle is in good condition with very fine patina.
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.

Bottles carved as gifts wrapped in brocade were among those produced as a standard design for the Court to be distributed as gifts. In terms of the purity of the material, and quality of the carving, this is one of the finer examples known. The symbolism of the tied cloth or brocade is a homonym on the word for this type of cloth, fu, which sounds like the word for good fortune and happiness. The sash, shoudai, also signifies longevity. A white jade example was sold in these rooms, 23rd March 2004, lot 133.