Lot 872. A glazed beaker with raised relief and polychrome enamel decoration, Trần-Lê dynasty, 14th-15th century, the enamel decoration possibly later; 5in (12.7cm) diameter, 4in (10cm) high. Estimate US$ 1,500 - 2,500 (€1,300 - 2,100). Sold for US$ 3,500 (€2,954). Photo: Bonhams.

The exterior walls molded in subtle raised relief with vertical ribs and a line of tiny circular bosses below the rim, the glaze covering the exterior and interior with four spur marks visible on the circular floor; the enamel decoration drawn in iron red with bands of coins, composite lotus flowers on leafy tendrils and jeweled lappets, the designs highlighted in yellow and green enamels and brown wash applied to the recessed base within the wide foot.   

Published: James H. Brow and Anh Hoang Brow, 'Vietnamese Ceramics: A Ten Thousand Year Continuum,' Arts of Asia, March-April 2004, p. 93, no. 34. 

Note: For monochrome glazed beakers of similar shape with raised relief decoration only, see John Guy, Vietnamese Ceramics: A Separate Tradition, 1997, p. 247, no. 135 (as 13th-14th century); and p. 269, no. 177 (as 14th-15th century).

Bonhams. FINE ASIAN WORKS OF ART, 18 Dec 2017, 11:00 PST, SAN FRANCISCO