Ornamental Jade House Decorations and Jade Snuff Bottles

Jade trees were mentioned in Chinese jade literature since Emperor Wu (140-86 B.C.). Branches of red coral, leaves of green jade, and flowers of semi-precious stones such as carnelian, agate, and colorful quartz decorated the tree branches. There are no findings of existing jade trees prior to the Qing Dynasty, but a plethora of this ornamental jade has survived until the present, mostly dating to the 18th century under Qien Lung. It was customary under the Qing Dynasty that wealthy brides would have a pair of jade trees in their bridal trousseau, usually enclosed in glass. Jade trees were planted in pots of jade and hard stone, or more commonly in metal containers adorned by cloisonne enamels. Pomegranate was the most frequently chosen tree due to its symbol of fertility. Interestingly enough, the ancient Hebrews also believed in the pomegranate as a fertility symbol due to its multitude of seeds. The pomegranate appeared in many Hebrew decorations, especially ancient coins. Chrysanthemum was the most common flower decorating jade tree jardinieres, as it is called the "flower of wealth and honorable position"

White celadon jade carving in the shape of a mountain, dating to the Qing period. Studying or praying literati are shown in caves surrounded by pagodas, pine trees.

Size : 8.3" x 4.5" x 1.6" (21.2 x 11.5 x 4 cm)

Blue jade sceptre (ju yi), dating to the 18th century (Qien Lung period). It is decorated in high relief with open work of superlative quality. The obverse features two dragons frolicking between ling zhi springs. The reverse exhibits ling zhi and part of the bodies of chi dragons. Size : 11.2" x 2.8" (28.5 x 7 cm)

Jade snuff bottles were common in the 18th and 19th centuries, mostly due to the European influenced use of tobacco snuff powder. Very elaborate jade carvings with high reflif decorations co-exist with modest jade bottles carved with simple designs.

Yellow jade snuff bottle decorated with pine tree branches in bas relief. The jade stopper is of the same color. Size : 3" x 2.5" (7.5 x 6.2 cm)