Pair of white jade "Ducks" vessels, Qing dynasty

Two exceptional small translucent white jade vessels carved in the shape of a Mandarin duck. The lower part, which corresponds to the belly of the animal, has a hollow interior and small legs carved in relief. On the sides are the lower part of the wings, which are carved in great detail and continue the shape of the upper part. The lid, with its concave interior, delicately depicts the body of a Mandarin duck "鸳鸯", with a long tail full of feathers, curved slightly upwards. The wings rest on the body and the head is slightly cocked, ending in a thin, narrow beak. The eyes are open and the head is crowned by a beautiful crest. These pieces are notable for their beautifully worked decorations and for the great delicacy of the carving, which allows the translucency of the jade to be clearly seen.

The depiction of two mandarin ducks together has been widely used in Asian culture as a symbol of love and romance, auguring a happy marriage.Western Qing Dynasty (1644 - 1912).

Size: 3.2 x 0.5 x 8.1 cm

Total weight: 50 g