White jade 'Cats and Dragonfly' group, 18th c., Qianlong Period - Attributed to Palace workshop Beijing c. 1760-1795. Well worked as one large and two smaller cats, the larger depicted with a dragonfly grasped in its mouth, all recumbent on a naturalistically rendered leaf selectively eaten in a linear track by a worm, the white pebble stone of even tone and with natural russet markings. 3 7/8" L. 9.8 cm. (excluding stand)

Provenance: From a Montreal Collector Lot notes: White jade has always been a very expensive stone. During the reign of emperor Qianlong white jade was controlled, carefully passing an official assay and only then distributed to workshops based on the quality of that workshop's production. In the Imperial Palace Workshops it is said that the master carver would take time and careful study the nature of the stone - Here, a quality stone was selected and this whimsical 'Cats and Dragonfly' group emerged. This depiction of three cats presents a wish for many generations and the worm on the underside contrasts with the dragonfly. It suggests a notion of metamorphosis from worm to butterfly. Additionally cats are known as protectors of silk worms as they keep rats away and rats are known to pray on silk worms. The expression Tsan-Mao or Silkworm-Cat is a homophone for San-Mao (Three cats). The dragonfly or qing-ting represents peace because of the word "qing" which also means "peace". The whole evoking wishes for peace, longevity and many generations and wealth.

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The absence of a condition report does not imply good or bad condition however a condition report may be requested as additional information about any lot. Please understand that any statement about condition is provided to a prospective buyer as a courtesy and prospective buyer is encouraged to have a professional restorer or art conservator evaluate lots and their respective condition to make sure they meet any particular expectations. All lots are sold as-is where is. Please note this Sale is conducted in USD. All Canadian customers will have the option of paying the CAD equivalent. Keywords: Chinese imperial gilt bronze jade nephrite jadeite antique Beijing Shanghai Qing ming qianlong