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A SIX-LEAF JADE BOOK INSCRIBED WITH THE QIANLONG EMPEROR'S CALLIGRAPHY QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG PERIOD
Estimate
80,000 - 120,000 USD
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Description
- jade
comprising six rectangular dark jade plaques from an original set of eight, inscribed and gilded on both sides with the Qianlong Emperor's calligraphy of his essay on war and his signature and seals, a five-clawed dragon on the end piece
Condition
It is overall in good condition, except for some slightly loosened frames with small cracks on the surface consistent with age and wear. Judging from the missing texts, the original front cover piece might be lost.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
Catalogue Note
Reminiscing about his long and illustrious reign, the Qianlong emperor held his military achievements in the highest regard, even styling himself the "Old Man of Ten Complete Victories" (shi quan lao ren). He recorded these thoughts in an essay written in 1793. The passage related in the present jade book relates the emperor's conquest of the Ghurkas in Tibet which took place from 1790-1792.
Jade books were most likely commissioned as tribute gifts. Few examples are recorded. An imperial jade book comprised of four leaves and dated to 1782 sold in our Hong Kong rooms 8th April 2007, lot 601 and two leaves from a Qianlong dated green and gilt jade book sold in these rooms 23rd March 2011, lot 705.