In anticipation of the fifteenth running of Gianguan Auctions annual summer sale on June 10, the gallery opens its preview on June 2, with a viewing of all properties including the star lot, a massive carved jade jar valued at $1M or more.  

The albaster-white vessel is worked in deep relief with eighteen mythical qilin, fire breathing beasts with hooves and bi-forcated tails said to appear in the presence of a sage or illustrious leader. They coil, slither,  and weave amongst one another above a base relief of upright leaves  and a fret band. The vase is 11" tall and wighs more than 20 lbs. 

Created during the Han Dynasty (206-220AD), the craftsmanship is remarkably sophisticated. (At the time, jade carvings were made by wearing away the hard-as-steel stone with carborundum sand and a soft tool.)

According to Kwong Lum, President of Gianguan Auctions, the spectacular offering was likely a very special commission. It will soon go to special collector for $1M or more. It is Lot 120.

A broad and deep collection of jades follows, including Lot 75, a fine white jadeite carving of fairies frolicking under a plum tree. The elaborate grouping depicts one fairy sitting on the gnarled tree stump while others clamor on branches. All are enjoying wine and laughing. Highly detailed, the statue rests on a wooden stand. It is of the Qing Dynasty, designated Lot 75, estimated at more than $60,000.

A massive, double ring jade disk with nine sections tells the story of the Book of Han Fujiezi in clerical script. At the center, a medallion comprised of two-halves meet in open fret work. Nine fitted arcs surround it, expanding the diameter to 22”.  The jade is green with tones of russet. It is Lot 211, opening at $25,000.

Also inspiriig spirited bidding is a gilt white jade ritual vessel that is formed by the co-joining of two mythical beasts. Created during the Tang Dynasty (618-907) it offers  insight into the advanced sophistication of artisanal works. The double beast vessel is Lot 252, carrying a pre-sale estimate upwards of $20,000.

An unusual offering is the gilt jade dancer at Lot 154. Captured mid-movement, one foot is pointed forward, body bent,  arms extended above the head and to the side. The gilding covers all surfaces except for the face, a sleeve and an arm.  Of the Tang Dynasty, the dancer is 15" tall and weighs about 8 lbs. She is expected to command more than $20,000

More accessible jade carvings include early carvings. Lot 119 is a neolithic carved primitive humanoid figure of pale celadon jade, with calcified inclusions. A Western Zhou reticulated jade phoenix with mythical beasts is positioned at Lot 253. The standing sculpture is 9” tall. Bidding of on each of the above begins at $8,000.

For details on these and smaller jade carvings and personal items, please visit the Gianguan Auctions catalog at www.gianguanauctions.com. For condition reports, contact the gallery. info@gianguanauctions.com or 212-867-7288.

All are on preview beginning Friday, June 2, at Gianguan Auctions, 39 W. 56th Street, 3rd Floor. The auction is on Saturday, June 10. It will be conducted live in the gallery and is online at www.liveauctioneers and www.invaluable.com.