White jade "Taotie" vase, Qing Dynasty

White jade carved in the shape of a ritual vase with a lid. The body is ovoid, gently domed, and tapers to a short neck that culminates in a sculpted lid with a lobed motif and a top button. The incised decoration on the body is organized in horizontal bands delimited by soft mouldings and depicts stylized taotie masks with spiral details.

On either side of the neck, openwork double handles project in the shape of dragons, with serpentine bodies and highly detailed details. The base is supported by three zoomorphic, claw-like legs with clearly defined nails, emerging from expressively carved animal heads. The jade has a slightly translucent white hue with areas of light brown patina, indicating age and natural oxidation. Qing Dynasty (1644–1912) or later.

Size: 17.4 x 5 x 7.5 cm

Weight: 285 g