AN ARCHAISTIC JADE 'TAOTIE' SCABBARD CHAPE FIVE DYNASTIES OR EARLIER

of trapezoidal form, worked in low relief with archaistic motifs forming a taotie mask, the stone of a creamy white colour streaked with dark brown

Collection of Mrs. Joan Barrow.
Bluett & Sons Ltd, London, 4th July 1988 (£400).

The chape is generally in good condition. There are some typical shallow chips to the edges of the chape as expected of age. There are also areas of pitting and light surface scratches to the base.
"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 chape of this type, attributed to the Tang dynasty, from the Qing court collection and still in Beijing, is illustrated in The Compendium of Collections in the Palace Museum. Jade, vol. 5, Tang, Song, Liao Jin and Yuan Dynasties, Beijing, 2011, pl. 19; another was sold in our New York rooms, 3rd June 1987, lot 7; and a third, from the Frederick M. Mayer collection, was sold at Christie’s London, 24th/25th June 1974, lot 177.