China, Qing dynasty, Qianlong / Jiaqing period Jade table screen superbly carved in varying levels of relief with a highly animated continuous narrative scene, depicting thirteen riders on galloping horses and elephant in a procession amidst a rocky landscape. The combination of riders carrying ceremonial court implements and those wielding weapons imply that the scene is of an imperial outing in the mountain. This very rarely displayed scene, high quality stone and precisely executed carving suggest that it may be a work made directly for the imperial court. The reverse side is decorated with a gold-colored engraving. The jade plate measuring 18.2 x 22 cm is set in a bronze mounting, which rests on two legs stylized in the form of the claws of a mythological bird Phoenix. The relief and mounting have been preserved in exceptionally good condition with minor damages, beautiful original patina, signs of age and usage. The overall dimensions with mounting are 27,5 x 30 x 8 cm.
Provenance: important private collection
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