16 cm. (6 1/4 in.) wide

Provenance:
A French private collection

The size and fine quality of the jade craftsmanship exhibited by the present lot is exceptional. The superb quality of the jade is evident in its even lustrousness and translucency, which allows for light to pass through its deeper sections, achieving a sense of three-dimensionality, space and depth. The remarkable craftsmanship of the master carver is also reflected in the contrast between the crispness of the details depicted on the cockerel handle, and the smoothly polished areas quatrelobed haitang-shaped vessel, purposefully left unadorned to ensure that the magnificent quality of the stone would be well-exhibited. Every single technical prowess mentioned above serves as a resounding testament to the craftsmanship achieved by the jade ateliers at their zenith.
The availability of jades became more accessible following the Qianlong emperor’s conquest of the Dzungar Khanate (present day Xinjiang province) between 1755 and 1759. Even so, a considerably large-sized Hetian jade of good quality was still considered a rarity, and to work the jade in the well-hollowed style of the present lot suggest great wastage in order to achieve the present final product; a sign which only reflects the importance of the present lot in the eyes of the jade craftsman and its intended connoisseur.
The cockerel or rooster is one of the twelve Chinese animals of the zodiac; it is also a symbol for attaining high official rank. Its comb is often regarded as a crown or jiguan, and is a pun for official or guan. The cockerel is also associated with the five virtues due to its appearance and behaviour: civil culture for wearing a ‘crown’ likened to that of the headgear of one in civil service; martial qualities because its powerful spurs; courage for confronting its enemies; benevolence for protecting its hens; and trustworthiness due to the accuracy of its crowing at dawn.

Price estimate:
HKD: 1,200,000 - 1,800,000
USD: 153,800 - 230,800

Auction Result:
HKD: --