Chinese Carved Jadeite Bowl with Orchid and Lingzhi Motifs
Qing Dynasty

Finely carved from pale celadon-white jadeite of even tone and lustrous translucency, the bowl is elegantly potted with a broad flaring rim above gently rounded sides, all supported on four feet. The interior is centered with a delicately carved orchid and lingzhi composition rendered in shallow relief. The orchid, long associated with purity, refinement, and scholarly virtue, is paired with lingzhi, the auspicious fungus symbolizing longevity and spiritual attainment. The exterior is further adorned with additional lingzhi sprays, Buddha’s-hand citron, and other auspicious botanical motifs, all executed with restrained elegance and fluid carving. The surfaces are meticulously polished, highlighting the smooth, luminous quality of the stone and reflecting the refined aesthetic favored in Qing dynasty jade carving.

The provenance of this bowl is exceptionally well documented and constitutes an important aspect of its historical significance. The bowl was purchased by Mrs. A. Zuckerberg at the Parke-Bernet Galleries sale held in New York on March 8, 1947 (Lot 130), for the substantial sum of $750. At the time, Parke-Bernet was the leading auction house in the United States and would later become the American foundation of Sotheby’s following its acquisition in 1964. The bowl subsequently entered the collection of Abraham Block (1903–1980) and Helen Block (1903–1985) of New York, and thereafter descended within the family to the present owners. Accompanying the lot are copies of the original Parke-Bernet catalogue photograph illustrating the bowl and the original paid receipt from the 1947 purchase, providing rare documentary evidence and an unbroken chain of ownership spanning nearly eight decades.

{Height 2 1/2 x Diameter 7 1/8 inches (7.5 x 18.4 cm)}.