Page 56 - Yamanaka co Auction catalog

84-TALL 1VIIRROR-BLACKCLUB-SHAPED VASE (K'ang-hsi)
A superb example, in porcelain, glaze
quality and decoration; one of the tall-
est known-one so tall has never been seen
here, or by some New York experts who
have traveled the world-and in perfect
condition. Pure white vibrant hard paste,
in cylindrical club-shape with flattened
shoulder and flange lip, glazed in a deep
and very rich pure black of most bril-
liant mirror surface. The soft and rich
tone of the gold remaining of its pristine
decoration gives added charm. The or-
namentation is more distinctly traceable
than in most of the mirror-blacks and
shows great luxuriance. In panels and
leaf medallions on the neck appear the
mei, chrysanthemum and bamboo, and the
famous twelfth century sage Tai Kung
1VIang, fishing, always fishing, with unbent
hook, not to make a catch but to medi-
tate, and to keep clear of a troublesome
wife-an indulgence which brought him
to honors as a counselor to the emperor.
On the body, in sections of differing form
defined within delicate lotus scrolls, are to be found a
pair of deer, the sparrow on the bamboo, the squirrel and
the grapes, butterflies, a carp, an earth dragon, and a
painting of the famous mountain scenery on the Yangtse-
kiang, which has inspired so many Chinese artists and
poets. Has stand.
Height, 28 inches.