A FINE MUGHAL-STYLE CELADON JADE VASE AND COVER QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

of rectangular section and flattened baluster form rising from a high splayed foot, the sides finely carved in relief with an intricate design of undulating peony scrolls with curled leaves and pointed flowers, the waisted neck flanked by a pair of floral scroll handles, the cover further decorated with a similar design of scrolling peonies surmounted by a stepped knop (2)

There is a 1/4 inch chip to one of the leaves on one side of the vase as well as several other minor chips to the carving. There are several fissures running across the piece which have burst through to the surface on the interior and exterior. There is a 1/2 inch area in the interior of the vase which has been filled with wax to stabilize the fissures. There is some fritting to the mouthrim of the vase and of the cover. The actual color of the vase is slightly darker than shown in the catalogue.
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 crisply carved design of luscious peony flowers issuing from willowy stems with wispy leaves evoke the elaborate and complex designs found on Indian Mughal jades, which were popular at the Qing court particularly during the reign of the Qianlong emperor when they first reached the court as items of trade or tribute. Revered by the emperor for their color, extreme thinness and lavish floral designs, jade carvers adapted design elements associated with Mughal jades as the curvilinear floral design on this elegant baluster-shaped vessel demonstrates. 

A spinach-green jade vase of different form but with similarly rendered Mughal-style peony decoration, is illustrated in Chinese Jades from the Collection of the Seattle Museum, Seattle, Washington, 1989, no. 109. Compare also a fine white jade vase and cover, sold in our New York rooms, 16th September 2009, lot 260.