Page 92 - Bonhams Chinese Works of Art June 2015 Hong Kong

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A RARE PAIR OF CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL ‘BAJIXIANG’
PRICKET CANDLESTICKS
Jiaqing seal marks and of the period
Each broad bell-shaped base vividly and densely enamelled with
scrolling lotus blooms interspersed with the Eight Buddhist Emblems,
the bajixiang, below a band of interlocking ruyi-heads, surmounted by
a drip-pan similarly decorated and with a six-character zhuanshu seal
mark in a line, supporting a smaller drip-pan centred by the gilt pricket,
all reserved on a bright turquoise ground, the edges and footrim with
gilt borders.
Each 39.5cm (15 1/2in) high (2).
HK$300,000 - 500,000
US$39,000 - 65,000
清嘉慶 銅胎掐絲琺瑯八吉祥纏枝蓮紋燭台一對
「大清嘉慶年製」篆書款
The candlesticks probably formed part of a five-piece altar garniture
also consisting of an incense burner, and a pair of vases. The
garniture, decorated with appropriate Buddhist iconography such as
the Eight Buddhist Emblems, bajixiang and leafy lotus scrolls, would
have been used for religious or ritual ceremonies, and probably would
have graced one of the temples patronised by the Jiaqing emperor
and court. Cloisonné enamel candlesticks bearing the Jiaqing seal
mark are very rare. Nonetheless, the shape and decoration combining
Buddhist Emblems and motifs, perpetuates styles of candlesticks
from the Qianlong period, which were made in various media including
cloisonné enamel, lacquer and porcelain.

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