Natural XinJiang Hetian Nephrite Jade Claw with Fish Carving, 1FB

Carved from bi-colored jade with a creamy pale green body contrasted by a warm brown outer skin, the object is worked in the round as a stylized claw grasping a fish. The claw is rendered with three curved talons articulated through smooth, rounded forms, while the fish is carved in shallow relief with incised scales and a circular eye. The composition is compact and horizontally oriented, with the darker skin of the stone retained along the upper and rear sections, framing the lighter relief carving and enhancing visual contrast. The carving is moderately detailed, emphasizing clear iconographic forms rather than fine textural refinement. The surface is smoothly polished, with minor natural inclusions and faint wear consistent with the material. Motifs combining claws and fish are associated with strength, abundance, and auspicious symbolism and were commonly produced in the modern period as decorative or talismanic jade carvings. Length 4 cm (1 5/8 in.), width 2.8 cm (1 1/8 in.).

Provenance:
Private Collection, East Asia.
Acquired on the art market, late 20th century.

Condition
Items are sourced from an estate.This is a no-reserve auction.