AN ARCHAISTIC CELADON JADE VASE AND COVER QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

the flattened shield-shaped body rising from a short spreading foot to a short waisted neck set with a pair of scroll handles, carved in low relief around the exterior with a taotie band, the angled cover set with a high knoped finial, the well polished stone of pale celadon tone

There are small nicks to the exterior and interior rims of the vase and the cover and to the top of the finial on the cover. There is a small chip and some minor nicks to the foot rim as well as a flaw that runs through one side of the foot.
"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."

This vase is notable for its delicate carving and exquisitely finished surface, which highlights the translucent and even tone of the celadon jade stone. Compare a slightly larger faceted vase similarly carved in with a taotie mask, sold in these rooms, 27^th June 1974, lot 28; another sold at Christie’s New York, 28^th March 1996, lot 12; and a third from the collection of the Countess of Halifax, sold at Christie’s London, 26^th February 1968, lot 72, and again in these rooms, 13^th February 1978, lot 117.