Chinese Qing Nephrite Jade Carving Of A Little Boy

~ Chinese Qing Nephrite Jade Carving Of A Little Boy ~

A charming small carving in pale celadon-white nephrite jade, depicting a plump, smiling young boy seated on a small woven basket or stool, its surface carved with a fine basket-weave/lattice texture. The boy is shown with both hands raised to his head, fingers spread playfully against his cheeks, wearing a simple tunic with a collar and topknotted hair. The stone has good translucency and a soft, glossy polish typical of well-handled nephrite, with a warm, even pale celadon tone throughout.
Carvings of plump young boys ("zi sun" or "boy" figures) are among the most enduringly popular subjects in Chinese decorative jade carving, traditionally symbolising the wish for many sons and grandsons, and by extension family prosperity and continuity. The example here, with its lively pose and naturalistic, almost portrait-like facial expression, sits within a long tradition of such figures produced from the Qing dynasty onward and continuing into the 20th century, when they became popular export and decorative items.

~ Historical Context ~

"Boy" figures in jade have a long history in Chinese decorative art, frequently appearing in pairs or groups in scenes of play (with a ball, a lotus stem, a drum, or as here, seated upon a stool or basket). They were popular both as personal ornaments and as small decorative or auspicious gift items, embodying wishes for the continuation of the family line and domestic happiness. Comparable pale celadon jade boy figures dating from the late Qing dynasty through to the early 20th century appear regularly at UK and international auction, and the type remains a recognisable and collectable category in its own right. Without a maker's mark or specific provenance, a precise date cannot be confirmed, but the quality of the carving, the soft natural polish, and the pale, even tone of the stone here are consistent with a late Qing to early Republic period piece, broadly 19th to early 20th century.

~ Dimensions ~

The figure measures 3cm wide and 5.5cm high.

It weighs 43g.

~ Condition ~

The piece is in great condition with no cracks or chips.