White jade plaque 'Return', Qing dynasty, Qianlong period (1736-1795)

A carved white jade plaque "秋梨皮" (Qiū lí pí) from Hetian. The hue is clear, transparent and natural with ochre or golden flecks of jade skin, due to the concentration of iron oxide. The shape is rectangular and the front face is decorated with a bold and dynamic carving scene, natural and smooth strokes, and writing in a full, flowing style. The edges, too, are worked with a relief border of clouds and bats. The reverse is plain and natural, with no decoration or inscriptions. It is in very good condition for its age. 

The scene depicts a mountainous landscape with a pathway, traversed by a man on horseback, dressed in elegant clothes, making his way victoriously to his home in the mountains. Along the way are deer, pine trees and finally clouds in the crown. The scene is marked with a seal "文玩" (Wén wán), inscribed on the jades of the Qianlong palace workshop of the Qing dynasty.

The scene is related to the expression "打勝仗回來" (to return after a victorious battle) and its meaning is: to return triumphant or to return to the court victorious. Warriors who return with merit are rewarded with an official position. There is another related expression "旗開得勝" (prepared for victory) which represents all those who are prepared and determined to win, who are brave and because of their performance are destined to achieve what they set out to achieve.

The other elements, such as the bats "福", complement the scene, for example, they are a symbol of blessing, longevity and happiness; and they often appear surrounded by clouds with auspicious meaning. Similarly, sika deer "梅花鹿 "in China symbolize good omen, wealth and longevity, as well as being acclaimed. In addition, the word deer is a homophone of "lu", a beneficial term. Deer are represented in their habitat, the mountains and forests. Related to this, the expression "逐鹿" (chasing deer) is a metaphor for competing for achievement. Finally, when deer and bats appear together they represent "good fortune twice".

Size: 19 x 9.5 cm; Weight: 805 g

An exceptional piece for its significance, delicacy, material and dimensions.

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

References:

Sotheby's "Important Chinese Art", 23 September 2020, lot 686

Sotheby's "Important Chinese Art", 21 September 2020, lot 209