AN EXCEPTIONAL WHITE JADE ‘LINGZHI’ WASHER QING DYNASTY, YONGZHENG – QIANLONG PERIOD |

superbly carved, naturalistically worked and well hollowed in the form of a large lingzhi head with two bats perched atop one of its scrolled edges, borne on an intertwining network of gnarled stems in sophisticated openwork forming the base, the whorled curving stems extended to the sides issuing clusters of attendant lingzhi heads and lanceolate leaves around the exterior with further bats in flight, the stone of an even white tone suffused with milky-caramel inclusions predominantly along the upper part of the vessel, wood stand

The washer is in good overall condition with expected nibbling to the edges and fragile extremities.
"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 present washer is superbly worked from a creamy and softly gleaming white jade boulder with russet inclusions. Taking the form of a large lingzhi head, its robust and deep sides are complemented by a pair of bats staring at each other across the rim. Worked in relief on the exterior are further lingzhi borne on twisted gnarled stems issuing furled leaves, in various positions for the amusement of the viewer. The lingzhi fungus, Ganoderma lucidum, was considered the most important of all medicines and a talisman for luck. It is also associated with the virtues of a ruler; classical texts such as Shangshu Dazhuan, Baihu Tong and Ruiying Tu all consider the growth of lingzhi an indicator of good government. The lingzhi motif, commonly found on imperial wares, represents a visual rebus for the wish for longevity, and a virtuous and benevolent rule.

Another jade 'lingzhi' washer from the Pilkington collection was sold in these rooms, 6th April 2016, lot 65. See also another with two lingzhi sold in our New York rooms, 8th October 1983, lot 119, and again in these rooms, 18th May 1989, lot 737.