A BROWN JADE 'YINGXIONG' GROUP SONG - MING DYNASTY

the stylized bear depicted in a crouched  position, head turned looking over its shoulder, with the hawk perched on its back, the details of the hawk's feathers and the tuffs of fur on the bear's legs finely incised, the dark brown stone with some reddish-brown and white inclusions

Private French collection.

There is a small chip to the top of the hawk's head, and a minor bruise to the base with associated small cracks. There are also the expected minor nicks to the carving overall.
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 motif of a hawk and bear forms the rebus yingxiong, meaning hero. This motif can be found on carvings dating from the Han dynasty and it continued into the Qing.