depicted as an angelic figure flying elegantly above scrolling clouds, holding a flower spray in one hand, portrayed adorned with a long flowing celestial scarf, the softly polished stone of an even white colour

The carving is in overall good condition. There are expected minute nibblings to the edges and fragile extremities, including the tips of the billowing scrolls and edges of the scarf.
"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."

A female spirit of the clouds in Buddhist mythology, apsaras were beautiful heavenly attendants to deities. The billowing clouds and flowing scarf of this figure attest to her celestial nature and endow this carving with a femininity and gracefulness befitting her role. Jade figures of flying asparas began to appear from the Tang dynasty; see one in the Tianjin Museum, Tianjin, illustrated in Jade Wares Collected by Tianjin Museum, Beijing, 2012, pl. 110, together with two attributed to the Song dynasty, pls. 120 and 121; and a fourth carving attributed to the Jin dynasty, pl. 141.