Yellow jade lamp, Warring States period

Ritual oil lamp, carved from yellow jade with ochre and reddish-brown variations and areas of calcification. The structure is divided into three sections: a semi-spherical top lid topped by a handle with a movable ring; its surface features fine geometric incisions and stylised clouds; it rests on a wide, flat, ornamented rim. A central concave body decorated with incised volutes, giving way to a cylindrical shaft covered by an incised latticework of complex scrollwork and flanked by four serrated fins. Flared base with four cruciform cut-outs, also flanked by a lower set of serrated fins. Warring States period (475–221 BC) or later.

Height: 20 cm; Largest diameter: 11.8 cm

Weight: 953 g

Provenance: Collection of Tommy Lam, Hong Kong, since 1980.