Page 40 - Sothebys Important Chinese Art London May 2018

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PROPERTY OF AN ENGLISH LADY AND GENTLEMAN Lacquer boxes decorated with a related design include one
A THREE"COLOUR CINNABAR LACQUER of rectangular form in the National Palace Museum, Taipei,
‘BUDDHIST LION’ LOBED BOX AND COVER illustrated in Masterpieces of Chinese Carved Lacquer Ware
in the National Palace Museum, Taipei, 1971, cat. no. 34; a six-
QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG PERIOD lobed box and cover sold in these rooms, 15 June 1979, lot
th
250; and a polychrome circular box sold at Christie’s London,
the cover carved in varying relief through ochre, red and
th
green layers with three Buddhist lions dancing in circles with 7 November 2017, lot 115.
a brocade ball, all reserved on a geometric diaper ground, the The design of three Buddhist lions playing with brocade balls
sides of the box with panels of prunus branches reserved on tied with long ribbons is rich in auspicious symbolism; the long
a similarly decorated ground, the interior and base lacquered ribbon symbolises longevity while the lions represent the wish
black for descendants to achieve success and high rank. The motif
(2) overall represents wealth, success and longevity.
15.5 cm, 6⅛ in.
£ 8,000-12,000
Notable for its meticulous carving and dynamic design, the
HK$ 88,500-133,000 US$ 11,300-16,900
craftsman’s proÞ ciency with the medium is evident in the
skilfully modelled lions, whose vitality and strength have been
successfully captured. Furthermore, the intricately carved ૶৻ඤ ࡜੹๿๸Ꮥଢ७ૠڀҖႊଷ
diaper ground, which reveals the layers of coloured lacquer,
forms an attractive contrast with the beasts, thus enhancing
the richness of the piece.

38 SOTHEBY’S