A very fine and important antique Jadite screen. The colour of the jade is whitish light green with dark shades and green speckles. The front shows a landscape with gnarled pine trees and jagged rocks, decorated with two figures and a pair of ducks in flat relief.
On the reverse is a Chinese poem: 'White clouds fade, cannot be found at the end of the path. The little stream flows into spring, the blossoms streak the ground alone. The scent of the fields wafts up from afar, the quiet gate opens onto a mountain path. In the shade the sun is reflected in its white beauty, on my robe falls clear splendour' (free translation). The Chinese calligraphy and the engraved symbols and inscriptions are gilded with 24-carat gold. The calligraphy also shows the artist's signature 'by Li Po' and the date in a cartouche, as well as the lucky symbols that symbolise health, prosperity, happiness and longevity. A very beautiful and important antique jadeite screen, formerly from the Henry Hilston collection in museum quality. Approximately 38 cm high. Good condition with various natural growth lines and irregularities. Wooden stand. Acquired in New York in 1987 for the purchase price of $22,500 (approx. 20,720.-€) All details are based on the documents, a copy of which is enclosed.