Dubbed the “jewel of heaven,” jade holds a very coveted place in Chinese history. Jade objects are prized for their exquisiteness and are symbolically associated with purity and immortality. In days of yore, ritual plaques were carved out of jade slabs. A large antique Chinese jade exhibition plaque from the 19th century is a key highlight of Akiba Antiques’ upcoming auction. Mounted on a wooden carved base, the circular foundation is decorated with abalone shell, coral, malachite, and other semi-precious stones. It portrays a lush green landscape with water, riverboats, cliffs, and pagoda architecture. The reverse side of the plaque has two seal stamps and character markings.

A pair of French parcel-gilt patinated bronze and cloisonné enamel vases also leads the listings. Designed by Emile Reiber for Christofle & Cie, each covered vase is intricately engraved with Japanese-style motifs and an elephant mask handle on either side of its neck. Another noteworthy pair of vases is made of rare Chinese greenish-white jadeite. Each piece comprises a finely designed phoenix bird along with a hollow carved blossom vase on a rugged rock formation. The vases are displayed on ornate floral wood stands. To view the complete catalog and register to bid online, visit LiveAuctioneers.