A GREEN JADE BIRD-FORM AMULET NEOLITHIC PERIOD, HONGSHAN CULTURE |

the flattened bird with wings outstretched, carved with a small protruding head and proud chest, the greenish stone partially calcified 

Collection of Stephen Junkunc, III (d.1978).

In overall good condition with some expected minute nicks to the edges and extremities and a few minor natural fissures to the stone. The crown and tail apertures are possibly later pierced.
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.

Small, sculpturally abstract amulets in the form of birds, possibly owls, are among the most iconic categories of pendants produced by the Hongshan Culture, based in north-east China, circa 3500 B.C.. Similar examples have been found at Hongshan sites, such as Hutouhou in Fuxin, Liaoning province and a Balinyouqi in Inner Mongolia, see Jessica Rawson, Chinese Jades from the Neolithic to the Qing, London, 1995, pl. I:5, where a similar example is illustrated.