A PALE CELADON 'GOURD AND PRAYING MANTIS' JADE CARVING QING DYNASTY, EARLY 19TH CENTURY

finely carved in the form of a large gourd attached to a gnarled stalk issuing furled leaves and curling tendrils, detailed with a praying mantis crawling towards a butterfly on one side, the pale celadon stone smoothly polished

There is a minute chip to one of the wings of the small butterfly and further occasional nicks along the edges of the furled leaves attached to the stalk, but overall the carving is in good condition. The actual colour is somewhat warmer and more pale celadon, less grey compared 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."