A RARE YELLOW JADE ARCHAISTIC VASE, FANGHU QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG PERIOD

of rectangular section, finely modelled with a central section with gently rounded sides rising from a splayed foot to a tall waisted neck and everted rim, the neck flanked by a pair of openwork chilong handles, below a raised band detailed with taotie masks and scrollwork motifs, all above bands of pendent and upright blades of leiwen patterns, the translucent stone of a warm yellow colour with attractive russet and milky-white inclusions concentrating particularly to one side

Virginia Museum of Art, Richmond, Virginia.
Sotheby's New York, 24th March 1998, lot 347.

The vase is in overall very good condition. There are a couple of insignificant nicks to the rim. There are also natural inclusions concentrating to one side.
"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."

Skilfully modelled with angled shoulders, this vase is notable for its luminous yellow stone, the quality of which has been accentuated by the subtly decorated surface, which further creates an attractive contrast to the finely carved and finished handles. Jade of this brilliant translucent yellow colouration was much favoured by the Qing Court for its association with the imperial colour of yellow.

A vase of similar shape was sold in our New York rooms, 14th September 2011, lot 364; and a larger example, but with ruyi-shaped handles, from the collection of Sir John Woolf, was included in the exhibition Masterpiece of Chinese Jade from the Woolf Collection, Sotheby’s, London, 2013, cat. no. 2.