A CELADON JADE 'LOTUS' VASE GROUP AND COVER QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

well carved with a vase of compressed flattened baluster form between a hollow lotus pod and a crisply carved lotus flower, resting on a nest of tied lotus stalks, their curled leaves and flowers wrapped around the body, the fitted, tapering cover undecorated, the stone of very pale green tone with white suffusions, carved wood stand (3)

The vessel is in overall very good condition with the exception to the finial of the cover which is missing.
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.

Naturalistically rendered, the vessel seemingly emerges from within a lotus pond, supported by bound thick stems of the flowers from beneath and by flowers, pods and leaves on the sides. This playful blend of the organic and artificial was a popular theme in the last half of the Qianlong period. The superiority of the craftsman was expressed by the ease with which they successfully represent natural elements in alternate forms. The present piece, with its bold, fluid carving and composition of delicate lotus cradling a vase, creates a useful domestic object while evoking nature.

For a related example of a 'lotus' washer, compare one in the Baur Collection, Geneva, illustrated in Pierre Schneeberger, Chinese Jades and Other Hardstones, Geneva, 1976, no. B 76.