19th Century Chinese Pale Celadon Jade Cicada Carving – Qing Dynasty

A finely carved Chinese pale celadon jade or nephrite cicada, attributed to the Qing dynasty and dating to the 19th century.

The substantial carving is worked fully in the round, depicting a stylised cicada with elongated overlapping wings sweeping along the body. The wings are individually defined by deeply carved channels, creating considerable depth and giving the piece a particularly sculptural appearance when viewed from the side.

The stone is an attractive pale celadon to greyish-white tone with areas of translucency, subtle natural tonal variation and inclusions.

Cicadas have held important symbolic significance in Chinese culture for more than two thousand years. Associated with rebirth, renewal, longevity and immortality, jade cicadas appeared in ancient Chinese burial traditions and continued to be carved as auspicious ornaments and scholar’s objects throughout later dynasties.

The rounded modelling, polished surfaces and more naturalistically overlapping wings distinguish this later Qing carving from the highly simplified and predominantly flatter cicada forms associated with ancient Han dynasty jades.

Comparable jade cicada carvings are preserved in major museum collections and documented examples of closely related form have been attributed to the 18th and 19th centuries.

Origin: China

Dynasty: Qing Dynasty

Date: 19th century, circa 1890

Material: Pale celadon jade / nephrite

Length: Approximately 7cm

Condition: Good antique condition overall with natural inclusions, fissures and minor surface wear consistent with age. Please examine the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition report.

An attractive and unusually substantial example of the enduring Chinese tradition of jade cicada carving.

About CKB LTD.

CKB LTD. was formed in 2010 and operates as an independent dealer, with a focus on carefully selected works offered through private sale and online platforms.

The company emphasizes informed attribution, clear descriptions, and responsible market practice. Objects are evaluated through visual examination, comparative research, and reference to established art-historical frameworks, with attention to condition, authenticity, and context.

CKB LTD. works with private collectors, dealers, and international buyers, and conducts transactions in accordance with standard international art market conventions. Each item is offered as a collectible work of art, with transparency regarding condition and attribution, and with respect for the nature of historical objects.

Condition, Attribution & Authenticity Notice

This work is offered as an antique object based on visual examination and comparative stylistic analysis. All statements regarding age, origin, attribution, and period represent informed scholarly opinion and are not guarantees of absolute fact.

Condition descriptions are based on external observation only. The interior, underside of the base, and any internal cavities or consecration materials have not been examined. No technical analysis (including XRF, thermoluminescence, or metallurgical testing) has been performed.

As is typical with antique bronzes, minor casting irregularities, surface wear, rubbing to high points, oxidation, and age-related imperfections are present and should be expected. No visible repairs or restorations are observed from the available views; however, the absence of hidden restorations cannot be guaranteed.

All items are sold as is, and prospective buyers are encouraged to examine the photographs carefully and request additional information prior to purchase. By bidding or purchasing, the buyer acknowledges acceptance of the item?s condition and the nature of antique works.

International Buyers ? Important Information

This item is an antique work of art over 100 years old and is sold as a collectible object. Buyers are responsible for any import duties, VAT, GST, customs fees, or local taxes imposed by their country.

The seller does not provide CITES documentation, export permits, or cultural property certificates unless explicitly stated. Please verify import requirements with your local customs authority prior to purchase.

All shipments are professionally packed and fully insured. Title and risk pass to the buyer upon shipment.

This work is offered in accordance with standard international art market practices.