A Superb finest Chinese carved jade vase. The nephrite jade vase carved in bulbous belly, slight banded to neck, toward flaring mouth rim, and dome lid like bell cupped lid with reverse bowl finial, raised with wide flat foot. Emerging archaic dragon motif textured-handles and geometric cavity drifts, are appended on either side of the neck, from shoulder upward into a vast neck eventually near meet the domed lid, to create a precise beauty. Dragon is the symbol of the Emperor, the Son of Heaven, eternity, Yang and Yin, male vigor and fecundity, the Li-Shui wave pattern which is known to be the abode of dragons. The center belly adorned huge taotie mask interspersed with scrolling foliage and tendril, enclosed with repeating key fret. Intricately incised design traverses all eight faces seamlessly, to create a precise beauty. Nephrite has mottled appearance with scattered inclusions along with a beautiful transparent chalk-white tone. The Jadestone has an attractive pale-celadon hue with a clean even tone. Lighter golden russet inclusions can be seen in multiple areas. This vase rests on a hand carved stand, set within a snug fitting original hardwood box, purple silk under base color and rose-pink cushion. Excellent craftsmanship is evident in the fine details. Nephrite has mottled appearance with scattered inclusions along with a beautiful transparent milk-white tone. Measurements: Height:8" Width:4" Weight:524g Stand Width:1.5" Stand Width:3.25" Box Height:12.25" Box Width:6.5"Lot Notes:Jade, as a stone, has five virtues. Its glossiness and warmth is like benevolence. Because inside and outside is the same, so that knowing the outside one knows the inside, this may be likened to righteousness. Its far-reaching sound (when struck) may be heard from afar, like wisdom. It is not easily bent, but can be broken, which may be likened to courage. Jade relates to such virtues as benevolence, wisdom, righteousness, propriety, loyalty, and trustworthiness, and it also corresponds to the ways of the heaven and earth.