A WHITE JADE CROUCHING DEER MING DYNASTY

the translucent white stone carved in the form of a recumbent doe resting upon her folded legs with the right leg kneeling, her head held high, the fur subtly picked-out along the spine, jawline and hooves

Hei-Chi, Jades from the Hei-Chi Collection, Beijing, 2006, p. 179. 

The overall condition is very good. The stone is evenly white with only a few white chalky inclusions and one single vein along the backside. There is one minute nick to front right hoof.
"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."

Carved from a luminous, near-flawless stone, the present piece is notable for the sense of fullness of form and vitality created by the half-standing position of the front two legs and the alert head. Compare figures in similar poses, but with all four legs tucked underneath the body, such as one sold in our New York rooms, 4^th June 1985, lot 49, and again at Christie's Hong Kong, 3^rd November 1996, lot 941; and a slightly later example sold at Christie's Hong Kong, 26^th April 2004, lot 1231.

A pun for 'emolument' or 'official salary', the deer (lu) symbolises longevity as it can live for a long time.