A WHITE JADE BIXIE-FORM WATER DROPPER QING DYNASTY, 17TH / 18TH CENTURY

portrayed in a powerful crouch, the mythical beast with its large head crowned with two horns above heavy eyebrows, its mouth with a drilled hole leading into the hollowed body, its back with an aperture surrounded by stylized tufts of hair leading down its bifurcated tail, with winglets at its shoulders, the stone with a pale gray tinge, white and inky black inclusions

Acquired in New York in the 1930s and thence by descent.

Lacking stopper, some very minor surface nicks, otherwise in overall good condition.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

A similar water dropper of identical size, ascribed to the 17th century, was sold at Christie's New York, 19th March 2009, lot 634. Another example was sold in our London rooms, 13th and 14th November 1972, lot 113.