Lot 1565
  • 1565

AN IMPRESSIVE CARVED JADEITE VASE |

Estimate
4,000,000 - 6,000,000 HKD
bidding is closed

Description

  • jadeite, wood
  • Jadeite measuring approximately 280.00 x 210.00 x 110.00mm.
Well carved as two cabbages, hollowed to form two vases, growing amidst a radish and a berry bush, the larger cabbage suffused with brilliant green and mottled green flakes to the pale green background, pale amber and patches of russet rivering cleverly worked into the veins, with two speckled green katydids camouflaged among the leaves, the smaller cabbage of faint lavender shaded to amber and bright green, the wooden stand carved as a vine of peonies, fitted case.

Provenance

Illustrated on the cover of Sotheby's Fine Jadeite Jewellery, Jades and Works of Art Sale, November 1988.

Condition

Accompanied by Hong Kong Jade & Stone Laboratory certificate numbered KJ 97491, dated 17 January 2018, stating that the jadeite is natural, known in the trade as "A Jade". Please refer to the certificate for further details. The semi-translucent jadeite carving of pale green to faint lavender colour, with mottled dark green and brilliant green flakes and a few amber patches. Upon strong illumination there are some internal fissures and some are surface reaching, one tiny chip on one leaf but not noticeable. Accompanied by a carved wooden stand. Overall in very good condition.
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. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.Certificates of Authenticity: Various manufacturers may not issue certificates of authenticity upon request. Sotheby's is not under an obligation to furnish the purchaser with a certificate of authenticity from the manufacturer at any time. Unless the requirements for a rescission of the sale under the Terms of Guarantee are satisfied, the failure of a manufacturer to issue a certificate will not constitute grounds to rescind the sale. Gemological Certificates and Reports: References in the catalogue descriptions to certificates or reports issued by gemological laboratories are provided only for the information of bidders, and Sotheby's does not guarantee and accepts no responsibility for the accuracy, terms or information contained in such certificates or reports. Please also note that laboratories may differ in their assessment of a gemstone (including its origin and presence, type and extent of treatments) and their certificates or reports may contain different results.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.

Catalogue Note

Accompanied by Hong Kong Jade & Stone Laboratory certificate numbered KJ 97491, dated 17 January 2018, stating that the jadeite is natural, known in the trade as "A Jade". __________________________________________________________

Considered by the Chinese as an ‘imperial gem’, the significance of jade in Chinese history has been evidenced through various ancient court documents and records, dating back to the Ming dynasty. In particular, the great craftsman, in pursuit of achieving equilibrium between the rhythm of life and nature, interpreted the carvings as the ideals of harmonious co-existence of all livings things in nature.

Amongst the various motifs of jade carvings, one of the most popular is that of the cabbage with katydids, “蝈蝈白菜”. The cabbage “白菜” represents prosperity and abundance, whilst the katydid “蝈蝈” represents fertility, as well as thriving prosperity. The thematic association of the cabbage and katydid embodies the ideals of a three-in-one union of nature, human creativity and symbolic significance. One of the most famous examples can be found in the National Palace Museum, Taipei.