A WHITE JADE LOBED 'ARROW' VASE QING DYNASTY, 18TH – 19TH CENTURY

of flattened and quadrilobed baluster form, rising from a splayed foot to a waisted neck set with a pair of tubular handles, the smooth polished stone of an even white colour

There are some minute nicks along the rim and the foot, one corner of the inner foot ring has been polished. The vase is in otherwise very good condition.
"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 origins of the form of this vase can be found in early bronze wine vessels, such as the Western Zhou bronze hu excavated from a site in Shaanxi province and now in the Fufeng County Museum, illustrated in Zhongguo qingtongqi quanji, vol. 5, Beijing, 1996, pl. 146. The archaic bronze form was later adapted by Song potters who developed the 'arrow' vase.

In its subdued elegance and restrained carving putting the emphasis on the jet white quality of the jade instead, this vase can be compared to a white jade vase sold in our Paris rooms 11th June 2009, lot 246. Compare also a set of three jade pieces from the Qianlong reign, including a small arrow fluted vase, published in The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum. Jadeware (III), Hong Kong, 1995, pl. 70.