Lot 2005. A Faux-Bois and Gilt-Decorated Bowl, Seal mark and period of Qianlong (1736-1795); 13.7 cm., 5 3/8 in. Estimate 200,000-250,000 HKD (19,281 — 24,101 EUR). Lot Sold 250,000 HKD (24,101 EUR). Photo Sotheby's

well potted with curved sides elegantly rising from a flat foot to a flaring mouthrim, the interior and the rim covered with an even layer of gilding, the exterior painted in different tones of reddish brown simulating wood with concentric knots and grain extending to the underside, the countersunk base inscribed in gilt with a six-character reign mark.

Note: A Qianlong bowl of this form and decoration is illustrated in Ming Qing ciqi jianding, Hong Kong, 1993, pl. 149, where it is noted that these bowls were made in imitation of wooden bowls used by Tibetan lamas which were often lined in silver of silver-gilt. See also two related bowls sold in these rooms, 9th October 2007, lot 1530, and 31st October 2004, lot 224; and a slightly larger example of slightly shallower form published in R.L. Hobson, The Eumorphopoulos Collection , vol. 5, London, 1927, pl. LXXI, no. E440.

Sotheby's. Fine Chinese Ceramics & Works of Art. Hong Kong. 05 Oct 2011