White jade censer cover, Ming Dynasty

During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it was often used as an incense-burner lid. This cap, like a hat, is made of white jade and carved with lotus and heron patterns above a beautiful pond, representing water, at the base of the carving. The lotus leaves and flowers are skilfully carved in beautiful shapes, especially at the top where large lotus leaves are found, and between the intertwining branches are herons, which seem to be standing foraging for food, creating a calm and peaceful atmosphere. A beautiful scene of living nature. The texture of this vessel is warm and transparent, the carving is exquisite and the layers are rich.

We can see the beauty of the carving on the white jade with the caramel-brown detailing of the natural skin of the jade stone. There are four pairs of holes in the base. Ming dynasty (1368-1644) or later.

Size: 6.7 X 6.4 X 6.5 cm; Weight: 216 gr

Provenance: Current French private collection.  -Previous owner of lot: 92, (Carved spinach green jade vase, Qing dynasty) Auction: Asian Art Auction 29 December 2022. Darley Auctions.