AN IMPERIAL WHITE JADE PIG QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG PERIOD

the animal finely carved and standing four-square with its head slightly raised, with a cash coin strapped to its back with a rope running to its mouth, the rope and tail carefully detailed

This finely carved jade pig is in very good condition with the exception of a minute nick to the front left hoof.
"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 figure is notable for its carefully observed naturalism. Delicately modelled legs that are slightly bent as though poised for action and finely detailed hooves extend from a full body which, together with the lines of the snout and large eyes and ears, create a sense of playfulness. Compare the treatment of the legs and curled tail with a figure of a jade buffalo in the Palace Museum, Beijing, illustrated in Zhongguo yuqi quanji, vol. 6, Shijiazhuang, 1993, pl. 264.

The pig is a sign of prosperity and abundance, a popular wealth symbol, and is generally rendered as a fat animal with its belly touching or close to the ground as seen in the present piece.