Gold was the chief symbol of prestige and incorruptibility for the elite in most ancient cultures. Jewellery and decorative objects made of gold have long been considered as a sign of wealth and status, and royal ornaments were extravagantly adorned with gold. Yet where gold dazzled, jade cradled the virtues of sages and was considered a symbol of immortality, with its deep spiritual and cultural significance often linked to the harmony of the universe.

Mughal jade carving began in the early 17th century during the reign of Emperor Jahangir (r. 1605–1627). Jade was crafted into a wide range of items, including vessels, weapon ornaments, and personal adornments. Like his Timurid ancestors, Jahangir was a passionate collector of jade artifacts. Mughal jades are renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship, characterised by remarkably thin walls, flawlessly polished surfaces, and intricate floral motifs executed with exceptional precision. Many pieces were further embellished with gold inlays and semiprecious stones, enhancing their elegance.

Perhaps the greatest Imperial collector in China’s long history of artistic appreciation was the Emperor Qianlong (1736-95). Examples of Mughal jades were presented to the Emperor largely as tribute gifts from Muslim rulers and officials based in Xinjiang province. He was so impressed with them that he composed numerous poems in praise of them. Chinese jade craftspeople sought to please the Emperor by copying Mughal pieces and creating works with a high degree of transparency and perfect uniformity.

Dreweatts is honoured to present the private collection of exquisitely crafted Chinese (Day 1) and Mughal (Day 2) gold and jade objects. With a stunning selection of scholar’s objects, hair ornaments, earrings, daggers and cosmetic boxes, etc., the collection showcases remarkable craftsmanship and the fine taste of the collector.

View Page Turning Catalogue

Auction Details

Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 May 2025, 10.30am BST

Donnington Priory, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2JE

Browse Day One

Browse Day Two

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VIEWING IN LONDON (HIGHLIGHTS)
Thursday 8 May: 10am–4pm
Friday 9 May: 10am–4pm
Sunday 11 May: 10am–4pm

VIEWING IN NEWBURY (FULL SALE)
Friday 16 May: 10am–4pm
Sunday 18 May: 10am–3pm
Monday 19 May: 10am–4pm
Tuesday 20 May: 10am–4pm
Wednesday 21 May: 9am–4pm
Thursday 22 May: 9am–11am