A CHINESE WHITE JADE SCROLL WEIGHT

A hand-written list in the Harewood House Trust Archive entitled 'Xmas Presents 1926' compiled by H.R.H. The Princess Mary, Princess Royal, Countess of Harewood (1897-1965) mentions 'M/sr/ss. Clayton - jade carved paper knife.' This is possibly in reference to the current lot.
The motifs carved to the present lot are very auspicious. The character shou means and symbolises longevity and bats, or fu in Chinese, is a homonym for happiness and good fortune. The decoration on this scroll weight thus presents the wish for a joyful and prosperous long life.