A FINE AGATE PLAQUE QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY, DATED TO 1717 OR 1777

the rectangular plaque with rounded corners, finely carved in shallow relief of a pair of cranes under a pine tree in rocky landscape, the reverse inscribed with a four-column poem in caoshu (cursive script) with characters ding you zhen yue in lishu (clerical script) at the end, pierced on top for suspension, the translucent stone with russet brown mottling cleverly employed into the design

The overall condition is good with minute nicks along the edge of the back and a shallow 3mm chip to the left edge of the plaque,
"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 inscription ding you zhen yue might date the plaque to the January of the year 1717 or 1777.  The natural contrasting colours inherent to the stone were well manipulated into the design showing the supreme confidence and control of the artist.