- 26
A WHITE AND RUSSET JADE FIGURE OF A ROOSTER QING DYNASTY, KANGIXI PERIOD OR EARLIER
Estimate
120,000 - 180,000 HKD
Log in to view results
bidding is closed
Description
- jade
worked recumbent with its crowned head turned sharply backwards, its beak grasping a leafy millet spray, finely detailed with plumage, the stone of an even white tone with russet patches
Condition
The figure is in good condition. There are minute nicks to the millet spray and the tips of the tail, with tiny sections possibly very lightly polished to conceal an earlier nick. The catalogue illustration is a tinge redder than the actual colour of the stone.
"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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
Small jade carvings of roosters are rare, and the present piece is a particularly exquisite example for its fine modelling. The translucency and even tone of the jade stone is enhanced by the soft round body, which in turns provides an attractive contrast to the detailed feathers of the tail and wings. The skilful incorporation of the natural russet inclusions of the stone not only displays the carver’s appreciation of the precious material but also heightens the overall sense of three-dimensionality. It is interesting to note that this piece would have echoed the past as its pose is reminiscent of jade staff finials in the form of birds, such as one attributed to the Tang period, included in the exhibition Chinese Jade Animals, Hong Kong Museum of Art, Hong Kong, 1996, cat. no. 70.
A slightly larger jade rooster similarly modelled with its head turned back and grasping a sprig of chrysanthemum, was included in the exhibition Chinese Jade Animals, op. cit., cat. no. 180. Compare also a carving of two roosters, attributed to the early Ming period, in the Museum of East Asian Art, Bath, illustrated in Jades from China, Bath, 1994, pl. 282.
A slightly larger jade rooster similarly modelled with its head turned back and grasping a sprig of chrysanthemum, was included in the exhibition Chinese Jade Animals, op. cit., cat. no. 180. Compare also a carving of two roosters, attributed to the early Ming period, in the Museum of East Asian Art, Bath, illustrated in Jades from China, Bath, 1994, pl. 282.