A heavily potted, sturdy jar (guan), China, Yuan/early Ming period, 14th ct

produced at the Longquan kiln site with thick olive-green glaze and a carved decoration with the flowers of the four seasons alternating with four panels, each with one large character reading Meijiu qingxiang ("fragrant and clear, fine wine") defining the purpose and use of this jar, a three-legged wooden stand and reticulated wooden cover had been added later to this jar - Good condition - D. 32,3 cm - Estimate 5000 €

Provenance: Property from an old German private collection

Note: There exist several comparable jars, all dated either to the Yuan or early Ming dynasty, the closest examples are published in Ayers, The Baur Collection, with identical inscription, vol. 1, no. A 108, Genf 1968.

Nagel Aunctions. Asian Arts. 10-11 November 2008. www.auction.de