- 1993
A WHITE AND RUSSET JADE CARVING OF MANDARIN DUCKS SONG DYNASTY
Estimate
120,000 - 180,000 HKD
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Description
the stone carved in the form of a pair of mandarin ducks kissing, their beaks connected, feet touching and wings overlapping, one duck dyed russet, the other duck left white
Exhibited
Chinese Jade Animals, Hong Kong Museum of Art, Hong Kong, 1996, cat. no. 120.
Literature
Hei-Chi, Jades from the Hei-Chi Collection, Beijing, 2006, p. 156.
Condition
The overall condition is very good. The stone has a slightly more matte patina.
"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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
This piece is notable for its charming and naturalistic depiction of the ducks; see a related carving sold at Christie's New York, 30th November 1984, lot 433. For an example portraying two ducks, but with the head of one resting on the back of the other, see one sold at Christie's New York, 16th October 2001, lot 213.
A pair of mandarin ducks is symbolic of fidelity and a happy marriage, and pieces such as the present carving would have been appropriate wedding gifts.