A PALE CELADON JADE 'LONGEVITY' GROUP QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY |

the large pebble carved as a deer and crane nestled alongside each other, each grasping sprigs of chrysanthemum and peach in the mouth, the feet tucked neatly underneath, the deer with antlers flattened down the neck, the eyes, feathers and fur finely incised, the stone an even pale celadon with occasional faint russet patches, wood stand (2)

Spink & Son, London, 23rd September 1982.
Collection of Florence (1920-2018) and Herbert (1917-2016) Irving, no. 397.

The carving is in overall good condition with only a few minute nicks to the high relief. The color is slightly greener than in the illustration in the printed catalog. Please note that this lot includes a stand, frame or other component made from a type of Chinese hardwood, which, if exported, will require a CITES permit to leave the United States.
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.

Together, the deer (lu) and crane (he) form the rebus for liuhe, suggesting the phrase liuhe tongchun ('the universe is enjoying spring or longevity'). The blessing is emphasized by the presence of other emblems associated with longevity, such as the peach and chrysanthemum.  A 'deer and bird' group sold at Christie's New York, 24th March 2004, lot 42. For jade carvings of deer holding sprigs of lingzhi, see one sold at Christie's Hong Kong, 27th October 2003, lot 822, and another sold at Christie's Paris, 22nd November 2005, lot 25. Compare also a white and brown jade 'deer and badger' carving sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 30th May 2019, lot 594.