Lot 969. A white jade shaped rectangular plaque, 18th century; 1 7/8 in. (4.8 cm.) high. Estimate USD 20,000 - USD 30,000. Price realised USD 68,750. © Christie's Images Ltd 2018.

One side is well carved with a scene of the Northern Song poet, Mi Fu, accompanied by an attendant, bowing to a tall, pierced rock, and on the reverse with a lengthy inscription referring to the scene, and a seal, zhen (treasure). The semi-translucent stone is of even white color..

Provenance: Lizzadro Collection, Elmhurst, Illinois, acquired prior to 1960.

Note: The inscription is taken from the poem, An inscription on the Painting of Mi Fu Bowing to a Stone, by the Yuan master Ni Zan, and may be translated as 'Mi Zhang [Mi Fu] loves inkstones and hence loves stones; who becomes obsessed in searching for beautiful and rare pieces. He paints a work portraying himself before a stone calling it "big brother"; the reputation of his eccentricity is indeed well deserved.

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