Lot 4. A small rare copper-red-glazed waterpot, taibo zun, Yongzheng six-character mark and of the period (1723-1735); 5.2cm (2in) diam. Estimate HK$ 240,000 - 340,000 (€29,000 - 41,000). Sold for HK$ 1,600,000 (€ 190,095). Photo: Bonhams.

The domed vessel deftly modelled in the form of a beehive surmounted by a slightly everted rim with a tiny indentation, covered overall in a rich copper-red glaze of crushed raspberry-red tone, thinning to white at the rim, interior glazed white. 

Provenance: An important European private collection

Note: The present lot is a rare imperial 'scholar's desk' object. Distinguished in its pleasing elegance and refined delicacy from the larger taibo zun examples made during the preceding Kangxi period, it is as such a fitting representation of the Yongzheng reign.

The taibo zun is of a classic dome shape typical of the Kangxi reign, inspired by the winepot of the legendary Tang dynasty poet, Li Bai (AD 701-762). The poet, notorious for his drinking, is often depicted leaning against a wine jar of this form. This shape is also referred to as a jizhao zun, as it resembles a chicken coop. However, the present vessel departing from its Kangxi prototype in its smaller refined size, and the minute indentation at the rim, made precisely to accommodate a spoon, encapsulate a blend of practicality and artistic splendour. In its exquisite copper-red glaze, of attractive crushed raspberry tone, the scholar's vessel has transcended its modest function, transformed into a jewel-like object, to be admired and prized.

Compare a related pale-green-glazed waterpot, Yongzheng seal mark and period (5.5cm diam.), decorated with floral design, illustrated in The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum: Small Refined Articles of the Study, Shanghai, 2009, pl.218.

Bonhams. EXCEPTIONAL CHINESE ART FROM A EUROPEAN PRIVATE COLLECTION, 3 Dec 2015 10:30 HKT - HONG KONG, ADMIRALTY