Lot 1525. A blue and white rouleau vase, Kangxi period (1662-1722), 18½ in. (47 cm.) high. Estimate USD 20,000 - USD 30,000. Price realised USD 183,750 © Christie's Images Ltd 2013

The vase is well painted with a continuous scene of a gathering of the Eighteen Scholars of the Tang dynasty shown at various pursuits including playing the qin and playing weiqi while being served by numerous attendants, some of whom are floating wine cups on lotus leaves in a stream, all below a band of detached shou characters and a combined ruyi and key-fret band penciled in blue line either side of a single rib that encircles the neck. 

Provenance: Private collection, Dallas, Texas, ca. 1992. 

Note: The decoration most likely represents the gathering of eighteen erudite scholars who were specifically chosen by Emperor Taizong (626-649) to promote interests of culture and literature. The scene could also represent a tribute to the successful passing of the state examination, or congratulations on a promotion. These last two possibilities may explain the two scholars, one seated and one standing, who appear to be looking directly at the viewer of the vase. 

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, 21 - 22 March 2013, New York, Rockefeller Center