Lot 264 , A large Chinese pale celadon jade ‘dragon-fish’ vessel and cover, 19th century

A large Chinese pale celadon jade ‘dragon-fish’ vessel and cover, 19th century, with a small chain-linked cover to the top of the dragon fish, probably for use as a water pot, the fish tail carved in high relief and open work with a chilong (sea dragon), the stone of good even tone, 13.9cm long, carved wood ‘waves’ stand.
The carp (liyu) transforming into a dragon (long) is associated with the passing of the Imperial Civil Service examinations.

Provenance - A. V. K. Murray collection, purchased from Ming Dynasty Antique Art & Crafts, Hong Kong, 18th February 1971, for HK$3630.
£3,000-4,000

Condition:
The cover has a few minute nicks to the edge, the carving in general has natural inclusions and veining to the stone, otherwise in good condition.

Sold for £2,800