Lot 109. An exceptional rock crystal vase, waterpot and lingzhi group with ivory stand, Qianlong period (1736-1795). Estimate £50,000 - 80,000 (€65,000 - 100,000). Unsold. Photo Bonhams.

Boldly carved as an archaistic hu vase with scrolling kui dragon handles flanking the waisted neck, and a well-fitted cover with gently-sloping edges, beside a globular water pot, all surrounded by entwining gnarled lingzhi stems and leafy branches of peaches, 22cm (8 5/8in) wide; the ivory stand meticulously carved with openwork designs of interlocking chilong surrounded by branches of lingzhi and peaches. 23.7cm (9 3/8in) wide (3) 

Notes: A rock crystal vase, waterpot and lingzhi group of high artistry and craftsmanship, such as the present lot, is extremely rare. The accomplishment of Qing imperial craftsmen is exemplified in a related rock crystal vase group, carved with phoenix, bat and auspicious plants, illustrated by S.Bushell, Chinese Art, vol 1, London, 1921, pl.102. See also a similar crystal vase with lingzhi illustrated in Qing dai yu diao zhi mei, Taipei, 1997, pl.128.

Inspiration was also drawn from jade carvings, compare with a jade vase group with auspicious animals, Qianlong mark and of the period, illustrated in Compendium of Collections in the Palace Museum: Jade 10, Beijing, 2010, p.57, pl.30, which highlights the similar exquisite quality and form of carving.

The ivory stand that supports the rock crystal vase is no less exceptional and is typical of eighteenth century Qing imperial craftsmen. The fine mastery of the carving can be compared to that on an ivory screen, Qianlong period, illustrated in The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum: Bamboo, Wood, Ivory and Rhinoceros Horn Carvings, Hong Kong, 2002, pp.220-221, pl.179.

Bonhams. AUCTION 23237: FINE CHINESE ART, LONDON, NEW BOND STREET