LATE MING-EARLY QING DYNASTY, 16TH-18TH CENTURY

Details

A MOTTLED GREY AND BEIGE JADE 'CAT' GROUP
LATE MING-EARLY QING DYNASTY, 16TH-18TH CENTURY
The recumbent cat sits in a curled position with its head resting on its paws, while a young kitten playfully clambers onto its mother's back. The carving cleverly utilizes the inherent greyish-black and russet tones of the stone.
2 5/8 in. (6.6 cm.) long, hongmu stand

Special notice

Prospective purchasers are advised that several countries prohibit the importation of property containing materials from endangered species, including but not limited to coral, ivory and tortoiseshell. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should familiarize themselves with relevant customs regulations prior to bidding if they intend to import this lot into another country.

Brought to you by

Olivia Hamilton

asianartny@christies.com 212-636-2180

Lot Essay

The cat is a symbol of longevity, as the Chinese for 'cat' (mao) is homophonous with the poetic, yet arcane, Chinese word for 'eighty to ninety' (mao). The playful kitten also suggests that longevity is accompanied by offspring to continue the family line.

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