A FINELY CARVED WHITE JADE CARVING OF A GOURD QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

boldly worked in the round as a gourd borne on a gnarled branch issuing large leaves and lingzhi blooms extending across the gourd, the translucent stone of an even white colour 

A private English collection.

It is in overall good condition except minute nicks to the extremities as can be expected, including a small nick to the tip of one leaf at the top. There is a bruise to the twig on the underside.
"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 charming group is notable for its naturalistic rendering, evident in the sinuous tendrils of the vine and the textured leaves with their incised veins. Depictions of gourds were popular at the Qing court as they are symbolic of fertility, and when depicted with a lengthy network of string-like tendrils and lingzhi, they represent the wish for longevity and abundance.

Compare a jade carving of a gourd, sold in our New York rooms, 17th/18th September 2013, lot 131; and two sold in these rooms: the first, 4th May 1994, lot 559; the second, 7th June 1994, lot 130.