Age: Qianlong Period

White jade 'Cats and Dragonfly' group, 18th c., Qianlong Period - Attributed to Palace workshop Beijing c. 1760-1795. Well worked with one large and two smaller cats, the larger depicted with a dragonfly grasped in its mouth, all recumbent on a naturalistically rendered leaf selectively eaten in a linear track by a worm, the white pebble stone of even tone and with natural russet markings. 3 7/8" L. 9.8 cm. (excluding stand)

Size: 3 1/2", 8.90cm.

Provenance: From a Montreal collector

Lot essay: During the reign of emperor Qianlong white jade was controlled and therefore each stone was carefully studied for it's inclusions and unique qualities. The best carvers could understand the nature of the stone and the designs conceived could be said to be inspired by the nature of the stone itself. For the present lot a quality stone was selected and this whimsical 'Cats and Dragonfly' group emerged. The natural qualities of the stone were carefully selected to form footsteps of a worm across a leaf on the underside and slight inclusions along the other side form the arch on the back of the larger cat and a slight patterning in the stone speaks to the natural patterning that a cat might have.

This depiction of three cats presents a wish for many generations and the worm on the underside contrasts with the dragonfly. It suggests a notion of metamorphosis from worm to butterfly. Additionally cats are known as protectors of silk worms as they keep rats away and rats are known to pray on silk worms. The expression Tsan-Mao or Silkworm-Cat is a homophone for San-Mao (Three cats). The dragonfly or qing-ting represents peace because of the word "qing" which also means "peace". The whole evoking wishes for peace, longevity and many generations.

PLEASE REQUEST ADDITIONAL PHOTOS OR A CONDITION REPORT AS NEEDED.

The absence of a condition report does not imply good or bad condition however a condition report may be requested as additional information about any lot. Please understand that any statement about condition is provided to a prospective buyer as a courtesy and a prospective buyer is encouraged to have a professional restorer or art conservator evaluate lots and their respective condition to make sure they meet any particular expectations. All lots are sold as-is where is. Please note this Sale is conducted in USD. All Canadian customers will have the option of paying the CAD equivalent. Jade keywords: Jade, jadeite, nephrite, burmese, xinjiang, hetian, qianlong, imperial, white, mutton fat, beijing, suzhou, ming, song, yuan, jin, liao, toggle, pendant, belthook, belt hook, chinese, hong kong, taiwan, old, antique, carved, polished,