A WHITE JADE FIGURE OF A MYTHICAL BEAST QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY |

worked recumbent with legs tucked underneath its body and tail curled alongside its rear haunches, its head rested on its front paws, detailed with a pair of almond-shaped eyes, flaring nostrils and funnel-shaped ears flanking a pair of long horns, the stone of an even white tone flecked with russet

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."

Finely carved in the round, this piece is notable for its sense of playfulness which is captured in the beast's facial expression and pose, and accentuated by its large paws and curly locks of fur. The attractive deep russet on its reverse has been skilfully incorporated into the rendering of its back. Small animal carvings of this type were highly appreciated by the literati who considered them both as utilitarian paperweights and as objects of aesthetic pleasure. Another jade mythological beast is illustrated in Thomas Fok, The Splendour of Jade. The Songzhutang Collection of Jade, Hong Kong, 2011, pl. 124; a larger example was sold in these rooms, 30th March 2005, lot 111.