A WHITE JADE 'BUFFALO AND BOY' GROUP QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG PERIOD

the boy scaling the back of the recumbent beast, with a small qilin scaling its right flank, the stone of an even white tone, with slight russet staining, wood stand

T.Y. King, Shanghai. (£28)
Bluett & Son, London, 13th December 1952 (£40).

This group is in good condition, but has a various flaws: running through the body of the buffalo.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The reclining buffalo, a symbol of strength and tranquillity, is a classic icon of Chinese painting. When depicted with a young boy riding on its back, this motif represents obedience and serenity as well as spring and agriculture because of its role in pulling ploughs. Even a small child can ride an animal of this size and strength without fear.  When depicted with a small qilin, a fabulous creature that was believed to appear only during the reign of a benevolent ruler, it is symbolic of the peaceful and prosperous reign enjoyed during the period, produced as a direct result of the heavenly mandate upon the emperor.

 

A jade carving of a boy climbing over the back of a buffalo, from the Mrs Ronnie Greville DBE, Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth, and Wallace collections, was sold in these rooms, 14th November 2001, lot 44, and again in our Hong Kong rooms, 8th April 2011, lot 3210; another was sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 8th October 2010, lot 2800; and a third of slightly larger size, was sold at Christie’s London, 6th November 2012, lot 10. See also a slightly larger jade buffalo and qilin group, but lacking the boy, from the collection of the Earl and Countess of Jersey, sold in these rooms, 16th May 2012, lot 18; and another sold at Christie’s London, 12th May 1958, lot 143.