Lot 2729. A white jade archaistic inkstone, seal mark and period of Qianlong (1736-1795); 8.3 cm., 3 1/4 in. Estimate 400,000 — 500,000 HKD. Lot sold 980,000 HKD. © Sotheby's 2010

of trapezoid form, the borders framing the ink-grinding surface carved with two confronting birds, their curved beaks and taloned feet pressed against each other, their bodies adorned with layered feathers and long tails, the reverse incised vertically with a four-character reign mark, the stone with an even white tone with russet inclusions.