A WHITE JADE 'PHOENIX AND QILIN' CARVING QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

depicted recumbent with legs tucked beneath both bodies and heads slightly tilted toward each other, the qilin's tail swept over its haunch to form a compact composition while its muscular body is articulated by a prominent spine defined with finely incised hairs, the phoenix's plumage detailed wings are folded along its sides while its long feathered tail curls against the qilin, the white stone highlighted with natural brown and white inclusions on the qilin's body and the phoenix' tail

This carving is in good condition with one minor nick on the qilin's ear. There are some natural fissures running through the stone and minor scratches along the extremities.
"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."

The phoenix and qilin depicted in this carving depict two of the 'Four Benevolent Creatures', which is further comprised of the dragon and tortoise. They feature in an old Chinese saying, 'When the world was born, the phoenix led all winged animals, the qilin ruled all terrestrial beasts; both the first of these species'. 

Carvings of a phoenix and qilin are rare and the carver of the present piece has cleverly utilised the long triangular-shaped pebble to fashion a highly auspicious piece. While jade carvings of separate phoenix and qilin abound, and porcelain dishes were frequently found decorated with a qilin and bird flying above, combined carvings such as the present are highly unusual.