Lot 412. A 'yellow' jade slender tapering jade pendant, Early Shang Dynasty or later; 3 1/2in (9cm) long. Estimate US$ 1,200 - 1,500. Sold for US$ 7,650 (€ 6,292). Courtesy Bonhams.

The semi abstract carving can be read as beaked bird-form or if inverted as a snub-nosed fish with gills and lower fins highlighted, the jade of attractive 'yellow' tone and with soft carving and smooth polish, a pierced hole at the narrow end.

Property from the Estate of Robert P. Youngman.

Note: Whilst serving a different function this jade can be compared to a hair ornament dated to the pre Shang era, (late Shijiahe Culture, 2300-1600 B.C.) modeled with 'eagle' elements from which it ultimately derived, illustrated by J.J> Lally & Co., Ancient Chinese Jade, March 2018, no. 54.

Bonhams. Fine Chinese and Japanese Works of Art Part II, 14 Dec 2020, Los Angeles