Groupe en jade céladon pâle sculpté Chine, dynastie Qing, XVIIIE siècle

représentant deux jonques à couple chargées de marchandises, passagers, enfants remontant un panier ou attisant un foyer, un chien assis à l'arrière d'une des barques, socle en bois sculpté de vagues

Two tiny chips to the back of the boats, one with associated natural russet flaw and another russet inclusion to the stone under the boats ; the stand is a late addition ; the actual color is consistent with the illustration.
"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."

Jade boat carvings such as the present piece represent the extraordinary techniques attained by the Qing craftsmen as evidenced in the hollowed out interior of the boat and figures modelled in the round. Moreover, a heightened sense of life and vitality has been achieved by the naturalistic poses of the figures, who have been caught in a moment of action.
Compare with a close example of carving in Robert Kleiner, Chinese Jades from the Collection of Alan and Simone Hartman, Hong Kong, 1996, pl. 165.
See a carved white jade boat sold in our Hong Kong Rooms, 8 April 2010, lot 1873.