White jade teapot and lid, Qing dynasty

A teapot made of white jade with relief motifs. The vessel has a round base without a foot, a globular body with an ear-shaped handle and a pointed spout on the side opposite the handle. It is skilfully carved in a subtle bas-relief technique around the outside, with a highly decorative design of carved flowers and petals. The lid is domed with a button-shaped handle and is decorated on the surface.

Such pieces are sought after and not many of them exist because the process of hollowing out the jade vessel is technically demanding. It is in very good condition and shows wear and patina from age.

In the centre of the base there is an engraved seal "乾隆年制" (Qiánlóng nián zhì), in four characters, surrounded by a frame of fretwork. It is executed with great perfection.

Provenance: European private collection.

Size: 8 x 9.3 x 14.5 cm; Lid diameter: 6.1 cm; Weight: 487 g