B45

Quartz, jasper predominantly dark green with blue and some mottled creamy white areas with a large central area cleverly carved to depict two storks, the reverse with two bamboo plants.

Chinese, 1750 - 1860
Stopper: pink tourmaline with yellow glass collar
Provenance: Joan Wasserman, London
Hugh Moss Ltd, London, 1974
Height: 6.6cm

Each jasper bottle has distinctive colouring and markings - the majority tend to be of the 'bloodstone' variety. This bottle possesses unusual and attractive markings, the natural lighter central 'splash' creating a perfect opportunity for the artist to place the subject in the central area. The crane is one of the many symbols for longevity, and the bamboo being evergreen and immutable is a symbol for old age.