Page 78 - Later Chinese Bronzes from the Collection of Ulrich-Hk 2014
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Later Chinese Bronzes from the Collection of Ulrich
Hausmann
Hong Kong | 08 Oct 2014, 11:45 AM | HK0558
LOT 3350
A LARGE GOLD AND SILVER-INLAID BRONZE INCENSE BURNER, GUI
LATE MING DYNASTY
of archaistic gui form, the gently rounded body supported on a deep, splayed foot,
integrally cast with two handles in the form of a pair of stylised kui dragons, the two main
sides each with an identical design cast with a taotie mask, all above an outer-footrim band
of two confronting dragons, the neck decorated with a further pair of confronting kui
dragons enclosing a mythical beast mask, the handles with the facial features in relief and
the bodies decorated with archaistic motifs, the detail all inlaid in gold and silver, the
interior cast with a short inscription
28.5 cm., 11 1/4 in.
ESTIMATE 600,000-800,000 HKD
Lot Sold: 2,680,000 HKD
PROVENANCE
Christie’s London, 21st April 1986, lot 234.
Spink & Son Ltd., London, May 1986.
CATALOGUE NOTE
Amongst all archaistic bronze vessels, incense burners take pride of place and archaistic burners of this size are very
rare. The present example combines a powerful shape which has a certain resemblance to archaistic jade censers.
The inlay is fine and lively, and the skilful artificial patination creates an antique appearance.
