Hetian white jade vase ‘Masks’, Qing dynasty

Carved white Hetian jade vase with lid, rectangular in shape and slightly wider at the shoulders, with rounded edges, stepped lid and foot. The jade is a uniform creamy white colour and polished. The decoration is inspired by archaic iconography, with horizontal bands of Taotie masks arranged in the lower section, and borders of scrolls and stylised leaves carved in low relief around the main body. The shoulders are adorned with flat handles in the shape of archaic dragons. An engraved seal is visible on the base: “乾隆年制”. The vase is presented on a carved wooden base. Qing dynasty, Qianlong period (1736–1795).

Measurements: 14.3 x 4.9 x 6.5 cm; Total height: 17 cm

Size: 442 g