A FINE PAIR OF WHITE JADE CUPS QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG PERIOD

each of small size, elegantly carved with smooth rounded sides rising to a slightly everted rim and supported on a countersunk base later incised with a four-character Qianlong mark in clerical script, the translucent stone of creamy white colour, stands

These cups are in excellent condition overall. The colour of the stone is of a slightly warmer tone although more translucent and glossy than as illustrated in the catalogue.
"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 delicacy of the thinly carved and smoothly polished walls of these cups is superb and is reminiscent of fine Qing porcelain. A related pair of winecups, but with rounded rims, in the  Hei-Chi collection, is illustrated in Jades from the Hei-Chi Collection, Beijing, 2006, p. 212 and in the current sale, lot 2039. It is rare to find jade cups and bowls with a countersunk base; see an alms bowl sold twice in our New York rooms, 15^th June 1983, lot 112, and again, 19^th March 2007, lot 59.