Lot 863. A blue and white molded dish, Kangxi period (1662-1722). Estimate USD 6,000 - USD 8,000. Photo Christie's Image Ltd 2016.

The petal-lobed dish is decorated in vibrant tones of cobalt blue with a central panel of chrysanthemum, peony and lotus amidst rocks and butterflies, below twelve radiating petals enclosing seasonal flowers and insects. The exterior is decorated with flower sprigs, and the base is inscribed with a character within double circles. 14 ¼ in. (36.2 cm.) diam.

Provenance: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, accessioned in 1918 (Rogers Fund).

Note: The most popular botanical motif in China, the peony, is recognized as the flower of the emperor. It is known as the flower of wealth and honor and represents the season of spring. The chrysanthemum represents the season of autumn and is emblematic of a pleasant life, generosity and a good retirement from public life. The presence of butterflies conveys blessings of happiness.

Christie's. Collected in America: Chinese Ceramics from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, 15 September 2016, New York, Rockefeller Plaza