Lot 959. A pale greenish-white and russet jade carving of two horses, Qing dynasty (1644-1911); 5 5/8 in. (14.2 cm.) long. Estimate USD 10,000 - USD 15,000. Price realised USD 52,500. © Christie's Images Ltd 2018.

The two recumbent horses are shown side-by-side with their legs tucked under their bodies and their heads turned towards each other. Their manes and tails are detailed with fine hair markings. The well-polished stone is of even pale greenish-white color with a few areas of added pale russet color.

Provenance: Spink & Sons Ltd., London, 1992.
The Gerard Arnhold (1918-2010) Collection, São Paolo.

Note: As symbols of speed and strength, horses have been favored in Chinese art for their prestige and masculine presence. Horses are also depicted as metaphors for the fine qualities of good officials, and embody the wish for immediate success. The present carving could very likely be a scholar's object, such as a paper weight, made for the literati or for those who wish to join the literati circle.

Christie's. Fine Chinese Jade Carvings from Private Collections, New York, 13 September 2018