A WELL CARVED JADE CICADA

Estimated Value:

600 € - 1.000 €

Result:

incl. Premium and VAT

Description:

China, Ming dynasty
L.6,5 cm
Small cicada made of green jade with brown veining. Realistic reproduction of the insect body, e.g. the structure of the delicate wings. Wooden stand.
Klaus Nierhoff Collection (1926 - 2011) - Jade objects of a smaller size, such as this cicada, were placed directly in the grave with the deceased. Jade was used to seal the body openings of the deceased, as it was believed that the stone could protect the corpse from decay. Jade cicadas were placed on the tongue of the deceased. This insect was chosen because it symbolised the change from one state to another and was regarded as a sign of continued life (in the afterlife) - Minim. traces of age

Bidding Enquiry

previous lot Catalogue next lot