A CARVED PALE CELADON JADE MARRIAGE BOWL QING DYNASTY, 19TH CENTURY

the compressed globular body raised on three splayed ruyi head feet with incurved mouth rim, the exterior carved in low relief with a wide band of stylised leafy Indian lotus scrolls, set at the rim with a large pair of flattened monster mask handles suspending loose rings, the stone of pale celadon tone with splashes of cream inclusions

The censer is in very good condition with the exception of minute nicks to the extremities of the mask handles. It should be noted that the stone is of a lighter tone than the catalogue illustration would suggest.
"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 present marriage bowl is notable for its large size and unusual handles that have been carved in the form of monster masks. Compare a bowl of similar incurved form, but with a plain body on a short foot and flanked by winged dragon handles, in the Palace Museum, Beijing, illustrated in Chinese Jades throughout the Ages. Connoisseurship of Chinese Jades, vol. 12, Hong Kong, 1997, pl. 73; another with four feet, sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 2^nd May 2005, lot 701; and a smaller example carved with floral decoration and two winged mask-head handles on a narrow foot, sold in our New York rooms, 19-20^th October 1988, lot 308. See also a pair of spinach green jade marriage bowls carved with a similar band of lotus scrolls, but with dragon head handles, sold in our New York rooms, 1^st June 1972, lot 186.

Vessels of this type are often referred to as washers or 'marriage bowls' and were popular during the Qing period. They were often carved with auspicious motifs that symbolised the wish for blessings and good wishes upon the owners. Notably, when viewed from the top the monster heads on this piece resemble butterfly handles which were commonly employed on marriage bowls due to their symbolism of marital bliss.