Jade & Hardstone

A RARE CHINESE QING DYNASTY INTRICATE JADE ...

A rare and well-preserved example of 19TH CENTURY from 19th Century, noted for its craftsmanship, material quality, and historical relevance.

This is a beautifully carved Chinese jade ornament, likely a decorative piece, showcasing intricate details and varying shades of jade. The ornament is crafted from jade, displaying a spectrum of light green and pale white hues, characteristic of jadeite. There are natural brown or russet inclusions, particularly around the carved details and edges, which are often prized in jade as 'skin' or natural variations. The green colour appears to be more saturated in some areas, highlighting the carved elements. The overall form is elongated and curvilinear, suggesting a naturalistic or organic subject. It appears to be carved in the round, or at least with significant depth, as evidenced by the different viewing angles. The carving depicts what appears to be a fish or a mythical creature with scales and flowing fins or tail, intricately detailed. One end features a more rounded, simpler shape, possibly the head or the tail of the creature, while the other end transitions into a complex arrangement of what could be waves, clouds, or plant motifs, intertwining with the body of the creature. The scales on the fish-like creature are well-defined with cross-hatching patterns, and there are pierced elements creating negative space, adding to the three-dimensionality and lightness of the piece. Several small, circular holes are visible, particularly in the central and more elaborately carved sections. These could be for threading, attachment, or purely decorative. Some areas show a smooth, polished finish, while others, particularly the carved textures, appear more matte, emphasizing the different facets of the carving. The ornament has a classic Chinese aesthetic, often associated with auspicious symbols like fish (representing abundance) and mythical creatures (representing power or good fortune). It's a finely carved jade ornament, likely depicting a fish or mythical aquatic creature amidst swirling elements, exhibiting a beautiful interplay of natural jade colours and skilled artistry. I would place this beautiful jade carving in the 19th or very early 20th century. It has the quality and aesthetic that bridges the refined craftsmanship of the late Qing dynasty with the continued high standards of carving that persisted into the Republic period before the widespread decline in quality due to mass production.

— Details

Reference

SA1157084

Origin

19th Century

Period

19TH CENTURY

Dimensions

W 15.5cm

Condition

Excellent — see description