A pair of baitong tribute silver candlesticks. Circa 1800

Each stem rising from an elaborate domed base engraved with foliate motifs to tiers of undulating petals, surmounted by an exotic parrot perched on a branch, one clasping a grape in its mouth, above large leaves, one with a butterfly, each supporting on its back the drip pan and sconce, all richly embellished with coloured glass and paste inset, the underside with pseudo hall marks. Each 37.6cm (14¾in) high (2). Estimate: HK$1,000,000 - 1,500,000, $130,000 - 190,000 - Unsold.

Bonhams. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, 4 Dec 2008. Hong Kong. Copyright © 2002-2009 Bonhams 1793 Ltd., Images and Text All Rights Reserved