A Pair of Carved Jadeite Gu Vases with Taotie Motif Qing Dynasty

each modelled after the gu vase and of rectangular section, the centre section with rounded sides resting on a hollow splayed foot and surmounted by a tall everted neck, the front and reverse carved in low relief with a taotie mask formed of angular scrollwork, above the foot decorated with two confronting kui dragons, the neck similarly carved in low relief with four dragons, the translucent stone of a icy-green tone, one with lavendar on the side and amber inclusions cleverly carved into foliate dragons, the other with a russet vein, wood stands

Sotheby's New York, 7th/8th April 1988, lot 134.

The overall condition is very good. There are very few minor nibbles to the edges of the vases. The right vase has an inverted 'Y'- shaped russet streak on the centre section and the left vase has a few thin russet veins near the mouthrim on the side that is not illustrated in the catalogue. The actual colour is paler than the catalogue image.
"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."

A closely related pair of vases was sold at Christie's London, 16th December 1996, lot 176; another similar pair was sold at Christie's Hong Kong 29th September 1992, lot 882. The archaistic form and design of these pieces reflect the aesthetic trend of the Qing dynasty, and vases of this type were also produced in other media; see, for example, a jade vase sold in our London rooms, 12th June 1990, lot 72; and a pair of cloisonné vases sold at Christie's New York, 19th September 2007, lot 171.