depicted as an angelic figure flying elegantly above scrolling clouds, portryed with a long billowing celestial scarf, the softly polished stone of an even tone

The carving is in overall good condition. There is a small bruise to the hands and a tiny nick to tip of a ribbon, all consistent with age. The reverse has been drilled for suspension.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Compare related carvings of apsaras modelled in profile, such as one attributed to the Liao or Jin dynasty, from the K’ai-hsuan Studio Collection, included in the exhibition Chinese Jades from Han to Ch’ing, Asia House Gallery, New York, 1980, cat. no. 98; and a pair of jade earrings modelled in the form of apsaras also shown in profile, attributed to the Tang or Liao dynasty, in the British Museum, London, illustrated in Jessica Rawson, Chinese Jade from the Neolithic to the Qing, London, 1995, pl. 25:6. See also three carvings of flying kinnaras, attributed to the Liao dynasty, from the Peony collection, included in the exhibition Jades from China, The Museum of East Asian Art, Bath, 1994, cat. no. 215.