A CELADON JADE CARVING OF A MYTHICAL BEAST TANG DYNASTY OR EARLIER

carved in the form of a reclining mythical beast with its head turned back over the shoulder, its head with two flattened horns and its mouth partially open in a snarl revealing fangs and even rows of teeth, the front legs curled up and its hind legs tucked underneath its body with its bushy tail curled up over its backside, the stone of pale celadon tone with opaque inclusions

The piece is in very good condition. There are natural veins running through the stone, and patches of calcification. The colour of the stone is slightly more celadon than the illustration depicts.
"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 strong contour of the body coupled with the expressive face and bold lines of the tail and paws create a sense of dynamism in this piece. While the creature has a close affinity with Han examples, it does not appear as aggressive due to the smooth surface and broad curves. A closely related figure, attributed to the Song or Yuan dynasty, was included in the exhibition Jades from China, The Museum of East Asian Art, Bath, 1994, cat. no. 230. Compare also a related example attributed to the Six Dynasties period (220-589 AD) sold in our New York rooms, 2^nd November 1979, lot 51; and another with a similarly carved tail, attributed to the Song dynasty or earlier, sold at Christie's London, 7^th December 1984, lot 300.