A PALE CELADON JADE 'LONGEVITY' TABLE SCREEN QING DYNASTY, 18TH / 19TH CENTURY

carved with a scene of Shoulao holding his staff tied with a double-gourd, walking along a winding mountainous pathway with three attendants, one with a peach bough slung over the shoulders, another holding a lingzhi sprig and leading a deer, the third carrying a covered vase, the entire scene framed by pine trees, rocks and misty clouds, the stone of an even color with some cloudy inclusions on the reverse, two-part trestle stand (3)

Accquired from a Private Collection, Palo Alto, California in the 1960s, reputedly purchased in China in the 1940s.

There are a few scattered minor nicks to the rim edge of the carved side. Overall the plaque is in 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.

The jade plaque is filled with auspicious symbols. Firstly, Shoulao is the god of longevity who has the power to extend one's life. Next, two of his attendants carry peaches and lingzhi, and they walk under a pine tree, all of which also symbolize longevity. The Chinese word for deer lu, is a homophone for 'emoluments', which represents wealth, and finally the third attendant holds a vase, ping, which is a homophone for 'peace'. Together all these elements bring the wish for a long, successful and peaceful life.