well-hollowed, carved as a flattened melon with lobed leaves and tendrils clinging to its sides, a butterfly resting near its base, the calyx forming a foot that allows the bottle to stand, the even-white stone with opaque white inclusions and enhanced russet coloration

Collection of Arthur Silverstein, University City, Missouri.

The lobe of one leaf is chipped and polished. There are scattered minute nicks to the edges. There is a stained fissure at the mouth.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The melon and butterfly form the rebus guadie mianmian, which is a wish for numerous descendants. This was a popular motif during the Qing dynasty, and there are several white jade bottles with this motif illustrated in Chang Lin-sheng, Snuff Bottles in the Collection of the National Palace Museum, Taipei, 1991, nos. 142, 143, 145, 146 and 153.