JADE CARVING OF A CRANE
MING DYNASTY (1368-1644)
8.3 cm wide, 5.7 cm high
The crane is naturalistically carved and depicted seated with its head turned back and its legs tucked under its body. The bird grasps a fruiting branch of peach in its beak. The crane's wings and tail feathers, as well as the leaves growing from the branch are all finely carved and incised. The stone is of pale greyish tone with areas of russet and dark grey specks.
The present jade is skilfully carved with a natural curve in the crane's neck and finely detailed feathers and stylistic features. The combination of crane and peach represents a wish for longevity.
Provenance:
Acquired from Nagatani, Chicago
Formerly in the collection of Philip Cardeiro
Knapton & Rasti Asian Art, 2009
Formerly in a private Dutch collection
Published:
Knapton & Rasti Asian Art, The Property of Mr Philip Cardeiro, 2009, cat. no. 64