Dark Green Fine New Zealand Nephrite Skate Sculpture & Contrasting Jade Base
Dark Green Fine New Zealand Nephrite Skate Sculpture & Contrasting Jade Base. Jade Source: South Island, New Zealand. Animal Size: 23.5 cm length; 15.6 cm width; 1.7 cm thickness (maximum dimensions). Base Size: 29.9 cm length; 15 cm width; 3.45 cm thickness (maximum dimensions). This stylized sea creature was carved from deep green nephrite, with some darker coloration on the head and along the right front edge visible in reflected light. The remainder of the stone has uniform color. When viewed using bright transmitted lighting the jade is very translucent, especially within the thinner areas along both side edges. The skate has inlayed black eyes, two circular. Like forms behind the head and another pair of similar shapes along the edges of its wing-like pectoral fins. A row of projecting knobs accentuate the central ridge of the tail and the tip curls towards the right. Both the top and underside are carved in detail, with well contoured and smooth surfaces that have a soft uniform shine. A large piece of jade with contrasting colors was selected as a base for displaying the skate carving. The top surface contours at both ends appear to be natural and the coloration is mostly light tan and pale yellowish-brown, accented with large patterns of dark brown and gray. The bottom side is cut flat and primarily pale and darker green, with tan and light brown along the thin forward edge. The jade skate is an unusual, interesting and attractive sculpture carved from quality nephrite, with good color and translucency. There are no distracting patterns or other color variations on either the top or bottom surfaces. One subtle area of darker green was positioned on the head and provides a subtle accent that blends in nicely with the form. This fantasy creature was carved with naturalistic details and features circular.
Like lobes that were inspired by the influence of traditional Maori designs. Although this is not any natural animal it looks believably real and lifelike.
The long curled tail, the asymmetrical shape of the pectoral fins and the pair of appendages at the base of its tail all accentuate the graceful body curves. These details are equally obvious on the underside and depict a slightly animated or resting fish.
Its beady eyes and the slippery-smooth polish add to the overall realism. To fully appreciate both the jade and the sculptural form, the skate must be viewed with bright backlighting. Then the thin areas of the stone glow a beautiful green, while the thicker head, central body and the circular. Like lobes appear as dark silhouettes.
Also, the excellent resonance of the high quality jade is demonstrated, with a gentle tap on any portion of the carving. I've provided a very detailed description and included the original collectors research. I'd be proud to sell this fine item to a quality Pacific Island native customer.