A Yellow Jade 'Duck' Group Waterpot and Cover Qing Dynasty, Qianlong Period

carved and hollowed in the form of a duck with its head turned back and webbed feet tucked underneath the body, the separate cover fitted tightly inside the hollow body of the duck, similarly carved with a recumbent duckling with its head turned backwards, its feathers meticulously detailed with fine incisions, the stone of a greenish-yellow tone with streaks of russet-brown inclusions

The overall condition is very good and the patina is very smooth. The actual colour is very similar to the catalogue illustration.
"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 waterpot was an essential item for the scholar’s desk, serving both as a utilitarian vessel and as a source of inspiration for reflection through the archaistic carving and the use of the precious stone. A similarly carved yellow jade waterpot was sold at Christie’s London, 12th May 2009, lot 5; one in the shape of a goose and gosling, from the Gerald Godfrey collection, was sold at Christie’s Hong Kong, 30th October 1995, lot 834; and another was sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 10th April 2006, lot 1764.