A PIERCED JADEITE TRIPOD INCENSE BURNER AND COVER EARLY 20TH CENTURY

the body carved with deep rounded sides rising from three lion mask and paw legs to an everted rim set with a large pair of dragon handles suspending loose rings, the carved and pierced domed cover surmounted by a finial suspending four loose rings, the stone of pale celadon-white tone with lavender and apple-green inclusions, wood stand 

This incense burner is in good condition, but there are slight nicks to the extremeties to the lower parts of the handles where they come into contact with the rings. There are some minor scratches to the rim and interior of the censer.
"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."

Jadeite ranks among the rarest and most precious materials to be employed by craftsmen in the Qing dynasty. Regular supplies of the stone did not occur until the normalisation of previously hostile relations between China and Myanmar in 1784 and it gained immediate popularity within the court. Jadeite was praised for its translucency which gave an impression of being like liquid when highly polished. Furthermore, it was observed that the stone appeared to absorb rather than reflect light, enabling it to almost glow from within. As a slightly harder stone than its nephrite counterpart, craftsmen were able to achieve a greater level of ornamentation, which also complemented the complex natural colourations of the material.

 

A related example but carved in low relief on the body with a band of taotie masks and a taller cover, was sold at Christie’s New York, 22^nd/23^rd March 2012, lot 1850. Jadeite tripod censers of this type are known with a variety of carved decoration; for example see two with Buddhist lion knops and ringed mythical beast-head handles, sold in these rooms, 9^th November 2011, lots 336 and 337.