Chinese Carved Jade Bookends

Appraised on: June 4, 2011

Appraised in: Eugene, Oregon

Appraised by: Lark Mason

Category: Asian Arts

Episode Info: Eugene, Hour 2 (#1605)

Originally Aired: January 30, 2012

IMAGE: 1 of 1  

Appraisal Video: (1:00)

GUEST: These are a pair of bookends that came out of my grandfather's attic. His father was a diplomat in China in the 1920s. I brought them because frankly, I couldn't really figure out what they were. I think it's jade, but the carving was beautiful, and I just thought they're interesting pieces that I don't know anything about them.

APPRAISER: Okay, so we're here to try to solve a mystery.

GUEST: Okay.

APPRAISER: So, to begin with, what struck me about them is that bookends are a decidedly Western form. The idea that they're bookends and that they are in this kind of quintessential Chinese shape, made out of jade-- you're absolutely right, it is a dark green jade-- with this scene of dragons among turbulent waves holds special meaning. Connotations of immortality and power, and the fact that you've got this association with your family, that's what makes the value. It's not just the stone, it's not just the dragons. The market for Asian things, particularly Chinese, is really strong, and I'm thinking it's probably worth around $5,000 to $8,000.

GUEST: Oh, my goodness, wow.