Overseeing the estate of a recently deceased doctor, nestled among the anonymous physician’s vast collections of East Asian works, local antique expert Don Elder happened across a hidden gem—a jadeite vase of indeterminate age. The colors and craftsmanship of the aged vessel stood out, highlighting the beauty of the stone, and Elder—owner of Elder’s Fine Arts & Antiques—knew he’d found something singular.  Branches lined with lavender leaves and flowers cover the upper portion of the nineteenth century jadeite vase and cover. The color gradually shifts from a gentle lavender on the top to a white in the middle, ending with a deep green base. “The use of color and its variation throughout the whole piece makes it particularly interesting” says Elder. The vase stands tall and regal atop a fitted carved rosewood stand. While the exact age of the piece and its creator remains unknown, its origins can be traced back to the Qing dynasty of China, which ruled from 1644 to 1912. Historically speaking, jade stands for beauty, grace and purity in many East Asian cultures and remains a valuable ornamental rock to this day. According to Elder, the piece’s value lies somewhere between $3000 to $5000.   Alongside the vase and cover, Elder plans to sell the doctor’s estate and his vast collection of East Asian works at the Elder’s Fine Arts winter sale in November. A wealth of antiques from the collection, including paintings, scrolls and sculptures from China, Japan and across Southeast Asia, will be available. 

Photo 1

Caption: Chinese jade vase, Elder’s Fine Arts & Antiques, 901 South Tamiami Trl., Nokomis, 941-488-1005.