A RARE CELADON JADE MEDICINE MORTAR AND ZITAN COVER QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG PERIOD

of elongated crescent form, the raised ends supported on a pair of flaring hoof-shaped feet each pierced with two ruyi-head apertures, rising to an oval-sectioned gallery rim, the stone of an even celadon tone mottled with milky-white inclusions and russet veins, surmounted by a domed zitan cover superbly carved in low relief with stylised archaistic scrolls around a central oval cabochon, the underside of the cover with a raised oval boss incised with the character bing

Sotheby's London, 5th December 1995, lot 162.
Collection of James R. Herbert Boone, Baltimore.
Sotheby's New York, 20th October 1988, lot 223.

Jade mortar: In overall good condition with just typical minor bruises and nicks to the edges. Zitan cover: In overall good condition with just insignificant nibbling to the edges. There are two shallow chips to the inner flanges, the largest measuring approx. 1.2 cm.
"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."

Mortars of this type were used for grinding herbs in making traditional Chinese medicine and were typically made of metal, stone or wood, with a wheel fitted on a handle used to roll through the long cavity. It is extremely rare to find a jade example and the precious material was probably intentionally chosen for the imperial court both for its intrinsic beauty, which has been highlighted through the restrained decoration, and its traditional association with immortality and health benefits.