Lot  716 Ravenel Spring Auction 2020

Ravenel Spring Auction 2020

A WHITE JADE FIGURE OF 'MONKEY'

Qing Dynasty(1644-1911)

H : 5.5 cm

Estimate

TWD 750,000-1,100,000

HKD 193,000-283,000

USD 24,900-36,500

CNY 177,000-259,000

Sold Price


+ OVERVIEW

This figure is carved on a boulder of carefully selected Hetian white jade, which is semi-transparent with a dense structure. Carved in high relief, two monkeys climb on a bulging sac, looking downwards facing the sunflowers which are in full bloom. The monkeys are carved with beady eyes, pointy mouths and raised ears, as they cling onto the sac with muscular arms, which are depicted in detail. Light carvings were made on the bulging sac, ornamented with a few blossoms. The style and extravagant craftsmanship suggests that this magnificent piece belongs to the Qing Dynasty.

Monkey and official shares the same pronunciation "hou" in Chinese, and a depiction of the monkey suggests the promotion of an official. The combination of bag and monkey refers to a family of officials. Monkeys reaching towards a flower suggests high achievements of scholars. "Hou" is the second highest rank of officials, and being an official brings fortune and honor to the family. Sunflower suggests a blessing of abundance in a family. Every element of this jade carving provides a blessing to the owner.
Related Info

Curios: Chinese Works of Art

Ravenel Spring Auction 2020

Saturday, July 18, 2020, 3:30pm