The Jadeite & Nephrite Tree of & Prosperity and Good Fortune.

Details

Description

This is an exceptionally rare and important work of Chinese decorative art, categorized as a monumental hardstone floral sculpture or … Read more This is an exceptionally rare and important work of Chinese decorative art, categorized as a monumental hardstone floral sculpture or "Jade Tree." Standing at an impressive 5 feet (152 cm) in height with a dense, sprawling canopy spanning approximately 9.5 feet (290 cm) in circumference, this piece is far beyond the size of standard hardstone tabletop decoration.[1] Its scale places it in a specialized class of exhibition-grade pieces or special commissions for highly affluent patrons.
​The quality of construction and material selection suggests production during the Early to Mid-20th Century (Republican or Export Period), when elaborate, large-scale luxury pieces were created to meet global demand for magnificent Chinoiserie.[2]
​Design and Composition Details
​The sculpture is a testament to the skill of Chinese master carvers, featuring thousands of meticulously hand-carved leaves and petals supported by a complex internal armature.
​1. Monumental Scale and Engineering:
​Height & Stability: The five-foot height necessitates robust engineering. The trunk is supported by a heavy-gauge internal metal armature, which anchors the vast, cantilevered canopy to the colossal base.
​Weight & Ballast: The estimated total weight is between 170 and 190 pounds, confirming the solidity and density of the primary stone.
​2. High-Grade Material Composition (Highest Valuation Scenario):
The valuation is based on the verified use of both high-density Nephrite and Jadeite—the two true forms of jade.[3]
​The Base (The Value Anchor): The massive, faceted trapezoidal base is believed to be solid, high-density Nephrite Jade (Specific Gravity 2.9–3.1).[4] This large volume of Nephrite accounts for the majority of the sculpture's weight (estimated over 140 lbs), ensuring structural stability and providing the foundational intrinsic material value.
​The Foliage: Thousands of individual leaves and small green elements are carved from high-quality Nephrite Jade, demonstrating exceptional technical skill required to shape the tough material into thin, delicate forms without fracture.[5]
​The Blooms (Intrinsic Multiplier): The intensely colored red, orange, and pale yellow flowers are believed to include high-grade Jadeite Jade accents (Specific Gravity 3.30–3.38).[3] Jadeite is the denser and rarer jade mineral, and its presence in the vibrant floral elements provides a significant boost to the piece's value.
​3. Inscription and Symbolism:
The dark green base is applied with auspicious gilt characters: "興隆生財" (Xīnglóng shēng cái), translating to "Prosperity and Wealth." This clear, commercially focused idiom confirms the piece was created as a potent symbol of enduring financial success and affluence, aligning with high-end commissions of the 20th century.
​Condition and Logistics
​Due to the size and weight, the piece is stable but requires professional handling.
​Condition: Excellent antique condition relative to its age and construction method. Minor wear to the silk/wire wrapping may be present, consistent with a hardstone sculpture from the early to mid-20th century.
​Logistics: Due to its projected maximum weight (up to 190 lbs) and delicate wire construction, this item is suitable for White-Glove Delivery or specialized art shipping only. Reinforced display furniture or a custom plinth is recommended for display.
​This is an unparalleled opportunity to acquire a true rarity in the world of Asian decorative arts. See less