清十八至十九世紀 黃玉饕餮紋蓋壺

carved in low relief with a taotie mask on each side, the cover surmounted by a bud finial, the smoothly polished stone of attractive yellow colour with brown and white streaks

There is an old repaired flake to the interior of the rim of the cover (approx 1.5 by 1 cm). The handles appears to have been altered and there are traces of polishing to the surface below, indicating that the vase probably originally had a bail handle above that is now missing, the current handles being in fact a remaining section of the loops to which this handle was attached. The knob is carved from a different section of jade but appear to be original. There are typical occasional nibbles along the rim and footrim but generally the vase is in good condition. It is particularly well carved and finished to a fine polish. The actual colour of the stone is somewhat warmer and a little more greenish compared to the catalogue illustration.
"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."

Compare another archaistic jade vase sold in our Paris rooms, 9th June 2011, lot 251.