A JADE CONG WITH ARCHAISTIC CARVING THE JADE ZHOU DYNASTY OR LATER, THE CARVING QIANLONG PERIOD

the well hollowed square body rising from a short cylindrical foot to a corresponding short cylindrical neck, finely carved in low relief to each face with an elaborate taotie mask, the foot and neck with dragon taotie bands, the stone of mottled cream, caramel and russet tones

Purchased in China in the early 20th Century.

The jade is in good overall condition with the exception of a 2.5cm., wide uneven area to the side of the footring, two c.3cm., long fissures to the interior, one issuing a 2cm., long hairline fissure which runs over the rim. It should be noted that the colour contrasts in the stone, from russet to a pale greyish-beige tone, are slightly more striking than the catalogue illustration would suggest.
"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."