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Late Qing Nephrite Jade Scholar’s Carving of Bamboo Cup with Squirrel, Grapes
$2,680
£2,040.82
€2,330.48
CA$3,765.73
A$4,131.72
CHF 2,176.39
MX$49,151.22
NOK 27,879.34
SEK 25,457.65
DKK 17,410.96
About the Item
This exquisitely carved nephrite jade sculpture dates to the late Qing to very early Republic period, approximately 1880–1920, and is a beautifully realized example of the scholar’s desk carvings produced during that era. The subject—a bamboo-form vessel enveloped in fruiting vines, with a squirrel perched above—is a classic auspicious theme in Chinese art. The squirrel and grapes motif symbolizes abundance, the flourishing of generations, and the continuity of family lines. In the hands of a skilled lapidary, this narrative becomes not only decorative but deeply poetic, and that level of artistry is fully evident here.
The piece is carved from a naturally celadon-toned nephrite with internal fibrous texture visible in areas of lighter translucency. What elevates this work beyond the ordinary is the carver’s masterful use of natural color variation within the stone. The darker, smoky zone was deliberately reserved for the squirrel, allowing the little animal to emerge naturally from the jade itself rather than from superficial applied coloration. This technique—sometimes called “using the skin”—was a hallmark of more accomplished jade workshops working toward the end of the Qing dynasty.
The vines, leaves, and clusters of grapes are deeply undercut, with the organic fluidity and slightly softened matte-wax surface characteristic of hand-tool carving rather than the crisp, high-gloss rotary work of later decades. The interior of the vessel is hand-hollowed with subtle irregularities entirely consistent with 19th-century abrasive wheel carving. Even the tactile quality of the polish is correct for the period: smooth but not glassy, retaining the gentle luster only nephrite acquires with age and handling.
The sculpture remains in remarkably fine condition with no chips, losses, or repairs. The grapes exhibit a natural micro-granularity from the abrasive finishing process rather than from damage. It is presented on its original hardwood stand, likely hongmu, carved in a form expressive of the period’s aesthetic sensibilities and proportionally correct to the piece.
Late Qing nephrite carvings of this quality—particularly examples showing thoughtful use of color zones, competent hollowing, and sophisticated asymmetry—are increasingly scarce. This is a quietly beautiful scholar’s object with real presence and genuine age, and an example that rewards close study under magnification as well as appreciation at arm’s length. It would be at home in any collection of fine Chinese jade, scholar’s objects, or academic decorative arts of the Qing and Republic periods.
The carving features a water-tight 4.5" vessel for holding flowers or greenery, as one desires. A natural fissure in the stone is visible in the right lighting and has been documented in my images. The fissure cannot be felt from the outside, is entirely internal and not a "crack," but rather a natural mineralogical feature of the stone.
- Stone:
- Stone Cut:
- Weight:226 g
- Dimensions:Height: 7 in (177.8 mm)Width: 3.25 in (82.55 mm)
- Style:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:circa 1900
- Condition:
- Seller Location:Northampton, MA
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU1589128062832
About the Seller
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