White jade "Longevity" figure, Qing dynasty, Qianlong

A Hetian white jade figure, with reddish-golden flecks, carved in one piece. This type of white jade has a natural colour. The outside skin tone is due to the concentration of iron oxide and is distributed in dots or flakes in the surface pores.

It shows two figures together: a deer and a crane holding a branch of 'ruyi'. The white colouring of the jade with golden tones from the bark and the details of the depiction are remarkable. It is in very good condition.

The idiom "鹿鶴延年" (crane and deer pattern in spring) is one of the ten most important traditional Chinese auspicious patterns in traditional culture. The meaning is related to good luck, fortune and especially longevity. 

Provenance: Important collection of Tommy Lam, Hong Kong, since 1980.

Size: 5.8 x 4.8 x 8.7 cm; Weight: 255 g