Full details of each lot are displayed, except the lot number, estimate and price. You must be a subscriber to view lot numbers, estimates and prices.
An exceptional famille rose…
Sale Title:
Auction House:
Auction Location:
Melbourne
Date:
1-Dec-2024
Lot No.
***
Description:
An exceptional famille rose enameled presentation vase. Republic period, dated by inscription to 1947. This vase, with its noble and graceful shape, features exquisite double handles attached between the rim and shoulders. The entire piece is richly decorated, with a splendid array of colors that create an immediate impression reminiscent of the grandeur of Qianlong Imperial porcelain. The belly of the vase is adorned with symmetrically curling Western-style flowers against a gilded background, exuding a golden brilliance. Each side has a begonia-shaped cartouche, delicately painted with auspicious scenes depicting the four Occupations (fisherman, woodcutter, farmer, and scholar) along with symbolic motifs like 'Spring swallows in the apricot Grove' and 'Pines and cranes for Longevity.' the artwork is finely executed, with elegant and refined colors that lend a sense of literati charm and symbolic auspiciousness, embodying the profound essence of Chinese traditional culture. The base bears a red 'Year 36 of the Republic of China' inscription in seal script, along with a 'Zhongzheng' red stamp within a single frame. The intricate seal script adds a touch of refined antiquity. The porcelain body is dense and delicate, and the glaze is lustrous and smooth, making it a quintessential masterpiece. This piece is part of the 'Victory commemorative Porcelain' series commissioned by the Nationalist Government in 1947, created specifically as gifts for political leaders from allied nations in commemoration of China's victory in World War II. After the victory in 1945, China's international standing reached unprecedented heights, prompting the government to showcase its national elegance and to strengthen diplomatic ties. In August 1946, Chiang Kai-shek summoned Wang fan, principal of the Jiangxi provincial ceramic school, to instruct Jingdezhen to produce commemorative porcelain for gifting to Allied leaders. This project became known as the 'Victory commemorative Porcelain' or 'Nationalist Diplomatic Porcelain.' Chiang's specific instructions were detailed in a dispatch published on the 25th in the Republic daily: 'The Chairman values the renowned porcelain of Jingdezhen (central news Agency, Kuling, 24th) and instructed that the former Imperial kilns of Jingdezhen be converted to national porcelain kilns. Chairman Chiang, concerned for the status of the porcelain industry, stated that the country should, in this time of victory, distribute fine porcelain to Allied nations as a tribute. These pieces must emulate the style of Qianlong-era works, with thin porcelain and refined colors. Chairman Chiang directed Principal Wang to expedite arrangements with the Jiangxi government to initiate the project.' the pieces had to match the elegance of Qianlong's Imperial ceramics, intended to showcase Jingdezhen's craftsmanship to the world. This commission was highly prioritized by the Jiangxi government, which appointed dedicated designers and craftsmen, including renowned ceramic master Peng Youxian. Six types of porcelain were finalized: 30 bat-ear flasks, 10 shield-handle vases, 60 wall plaques, 400 peach bowls, four sets of banquet wares, and two 'Victory' tableware sets. The shield-handle vase, designed by the provincial ceramic school, was particularly rare, with only ten pieces made. Known also as the 'Victory Cup,' its form was inspired by Tang dynasty phoenix-head vases and Western trophies, symbolizing the celebration of China's triumph. Given its rarity, meticulous craftsmanship, and historical significance, this piece stands as a pinnacle of Republic-era porcelain. Comparable example: a pair of its kind: Poly Beijing, autumn auction 2011, 'Imperial Art and Important ceramics and works of Art' , lot 5157, (Sold Rmb 6,210,000). Https://auction.artron.net/paimai-art5011655157. Provenance: lot 8327, Bonhams' San Francisco, 24 June 2014. Important private collection, Melbourne. Approx height 38.5 cm
Estimate:
***
Price:
***
Category:
Unclassified