#8256 • Rare, Chinese Hardstone and Jade Bonsai Tree Sculpture, Magnolia Blossoms, Carved Celadon Leaves, Perched Bird with Pearl Egg Nest, Pebble and Oval Base, Believed to be Mid to Late 20th Century

Part of $2.8 Million McLean Mansion Luxury Downsizing Auction (timed auction by Prime Auction Solutions)

Status: Sold

A genuinely exceptional example of the Chinese decorative hardstone tree tradition, distinguished from countless similar works by a single detail that elevates it into something truly memorable: a small carved bird perched on a gnarled branch above a delicate nest cradling what appear to be natural pearl eggs. It is precisely this kind of intimate narrative vignette, hidden within the composition for the attentive viewer, that separates a fine and considered piece from the merely decorative. The tree rises from a naturalistic gnarled trunk of aged and beautifully patinated character, its bark-like surface twisted and textured in the manner of an ancient flowering tree in winter blossom. The branches spread gracefully outward in the organic, asymmetric form beloved in the Chinese scholar aesthetic, each terminal branch fitted with hand-carved hardstone elements. The leaves are believed to be carved nephrite or celadon-toned jade or jade-like hardstone, their cool muted green providing the ideal foil for the blossoms that dominate the canopy. The flowers are believed to be carved white jade or white hardstone, worked into magnolia-form blooms with softly rounded petals of genuine sculptural refinement, each mounted individually on wrapped wire stems that allow for subtle natural movement. Scattered among the branches are smaller buds or fruit-form elements in a warm carnelian orange, adding chromatic warmth and the symbolic resonance of abundance and prosperity central to this decorative tradition. The composition is set into a substantial oval base filled with what appear to be white river pebbles or quartz stones, suggesting the feel of a garden or scholar's courtyard setting. The base grounds the sculpture and frames the ascending branching structure to strong visual effect. Known as Ming Trees, these pieces are celebrated examples of mid-20th century craftsmanship that draw on centuries of Chinese decorative arts tradition. These hardstone bonsai sculptures feature wrapped wire branches ending in multi-colored carved hardstone blossoms and leaves, and the finest examples combine quality hardstone carving with naturalistic composition and symbolic narrative content. This piece does all three, with the bird and pearl nest serving as the animating detail that rewards close examination and signals a maker of genuine artistic intent. Believed to be carved nephrite or jade-like celadon hardstone leaves, white jade or white hardstone magnolia blossoms. Carnelian or carnelian-colored hardstone buds. Perched carved bird with pearl or pearl-like egg nest. Gnarled naturalistic trunk on oval pebble base. Mid to late 20th century Chinese decorative hardstone work. Materials unverified and offered as described for informational purposes. Size: 7"H