A rare spinach jade 'Twelve Symbol' square seal-paste box and cover Qing Dynasty, Qianlong Period

the flat square cover carved in low-relief with the Daoist trigram qian flanked by a pair of dragons (long) forming the rebus for the Qianlong Emperor's name, enclosed within a medallion and framed with four qilin set opposite of each other and separated by a petal lappet enclosing a feather trefoil, all framed by a simple detached scroll border, the narrow sides carved on each side with three of the 'Twelve Imperial Symbols' - the mountain, dragon, phoenix, sun, moon, constellation, millet, axe, 'ya' symbol, ceremonial cups, aquatic plant and fire, each enclosed within a medallion and framed with a similar scroll border,  the base carved with an inner lip and a similar scroll border around the edge

The overall condition is quite good with only a few minute chips along the corners. One 1.5 cm chip on the inside edge of the cover has been slightly polished.
"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 "Twelve Imperial Symbols' include the sun, moon, star constellation, mountain, dragon, pheasant, goblet, pond weed, fire, grains, axe-head, and the 'ya' character.  They represent the virtues needed by a ruler and most often appeared on imperial and court vestments. Historically, the symbols were used only among the ruling class and the number of emblems embroidered would indicate the ranking; only the Emperor had the exclusive right to include the complete set of twelve symbols on the robes.  In the Qing Dynasty, the Twelve Symbols appeared on jade wares as well and were adopted as a symbol of good luck. 

Compare a similar jade seal paste box with design of the Twelve Symbols from the Beijing Palace Museum, illustrated in Jadeware (III), The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum, Hong Kong, 1995, cat. no. 184.  See also a bamboo veneer box carved with a 'ya' character' sold in these rooms, 2^nd May 2005, lot 573.