清十九世紀末 翠玉浮雕「饕餮」紋雙龍耳瓶

of slender baluster form and rectangular section, the slightly bombé sides supported on a splayed pedestal foot, rising up to angled shoulders and a waisted neck flanked by a pair of openwork handles in the form of kui dragons, finely carved on the main sides with a taotie mask between scrolling archaistic motifs, below a hatched zigzag band around the shoulder and upright cicada lappets collaring the neck, the rim incised with with key-fret, the translucent stone of brillant apple-green colour with deeper green undertones and a smooth polish, wood stand

The vase is in overall very 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. 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 luminosity and coloration of the present jadeite and fine workmanship is expertly displayed through the carving and smoothly polished stone. Known in China as cuiyu, jadeite was first introduced to the Qing court from the mines of Moguang following the conclusion of the campaign against Burma in 1769. However pure green pieces with an even, saturated hue and a high level of transparency as in the present piece only started to appear at the beginning of the 19th century. The superior qualities of the stone, notably its hardness measuring 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, elevated its value above that of jade. Compare a jadeite vase, of similar form and quality but lacking its base, sold in our Paris rooms, 15th December 2011, lot 10, from the collection of Georges Estoppey.