A CELADON JADE 'LIU HAI' BOULDER QING DYNASTY, 18TH / 19TH CENTURY |

naturalistically carved in high relief as a rocky cavern, the immortal depicted standing on a rocky ledge, with a jovial expression, leaning forward over the precipice, a broom tucked under one arm, and holding a pearl in the other hand, teasing the three-legged toad happily positioned amid a rushing waterfall on the ledge below, the reverse with a tall pine tree in relief amid jagged rockwork, the stone with milky striations and russet inclusions

Collection of Capt. J. C. Bishop, 1842 (by repute).
Christie's London, 18th March 1975, lot 213.

The boulder is in mostly good condition, however there are losses to 7 of the branches on the reverse, and minor wear (including minute nicks) to the surface. The stone has a stronger celadon color than in the illustration in the printed catalog.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The craftsman has skillfully considered the composition in relation to the boulder and incorporated the russet skin to not only ensure minimal wastage of the precious stone but also to heighten the naturalism of the scene, thus inviting the viewer to enter its world and enjoy the playful interaction between Liu Hai and his three-legged toad. Jade boulders carved to simulate landscapes or grottoes were favored by scholars. Most feature scholars in nature and more rarely immortal figures such as luohan, the Hehe Erxian or Liu Hai, as in the present example. A celadon and russet jade boulder of similar size but carved with a scene of luohan sold in our London rooms 18th March 2014, lot 288.