A FINELY CARVED WHITE JADE 'BIRD' PENDANT QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

well carved in the form of an archaistic bird, its ruffled feathers and body decorated and finely incised with archaistic motifs, the stone of an even white tone throughout

Exquisite Jade Carving, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 1996, cat. no. 204.

The overall condition is very good.
"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."

Meticulously carved with archaistic scrolling detail that accentuates the high-quality stone, the present pendant is likely to have been a prized possession of a lady. Ducks were an item for women as they symbolise marital happiness and the woman's wish that she might retain her husband's affection (see Ming Wilson, Chinese Jades, London, 2004, p. 29). Compare a similarly carved Mandarin duck toggle, attributed to the Ming period, in the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, illustrated ibid. pl. 24 (right); and another carving of a duck amongst foliage, sold in our London rooms, 13^th February, 1978, lot 82.