Page 39 - Bonhams Chinese Works Of Art July 28 and 29th, 2020 London

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A POTTERY OWL-FORM JAR AND COVER
Han Dynasty
The jar well modelled in the form of a plump
rounded owl, resting on two short feet and
its extending tail as a third support, the wings
tucked in at the sides, the plumage delineated
with fine incisions and herringbone markings for
the wings, the head forming the cover, of conical
form, with ring shaped eyes set on each side.
13.5cm (5.1/4in) high. (2).
£2,000 - 3,000
CNY18,000 - 26,000
HK$19,000 - 29,000
Provenance: Priestley & Ferraro, 25 March 2004
(invoice), label.

The owl in Chinese culture appears to have been
an auspicious bird in the very earliest times.
Jade owls, for example, have been found at
Hongshan culture sites, while from the Shang,
a number of owl-shaped bronzes are known,
like that found in the tomb of the Lady Fu Hao.
The owl continued to feature in literature and art,
usually with mysterious powers.

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For details of the charges payable in addition to the final Hammer Price of each Lot
please refer to paragraphs 7 & 8 of the Notice to Bidders at the back of the catalogue. ASIAN ART - PART I | 37