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This extraordinary 18th century white jade brushpot is one of my personal favorites from our upcoming Asia Week sales. An example of jade carving at its finest, this intricate piece also represents a historically significant period of Chinese history when the market for jade reached unprecedented heights.

Eighteenth century Emperor Qianlong was a great patron of the arts and crafts, and he had a special penchant for jade, commissioning countless ornate objects for Imperial use. It is likely that this brushpot was made during the Emperor’s reign in the Qing dynasty, a time when jade carvers took the utmost pride in their craft.

The detailed carving on the surface of the brushpot is simply extraordinary. It depicts a scene of three immortals in a mountainous landscape, joined by cranes and deer, both Chinese symbols of longevity. The figures also draw attention to the whiteness and clarity of the jade stone – factors which are highly desirable in white jade.

One can easily imagine this remarkable piece placed prominently in a scholar-official’s study. Given the large size of the brushpot and the value of jade itself as a raw material, the owner would likely have been a person of great wealth and prosperity. It will undoubtedly appeal to discerning and sophisticated collectors around the globe who have an eye and appreciation for jade, its intrinsic beauty, and its unique place in art history.