of deep U-shape rising to a flared lip, delicately molded to the exterior with large peony sprays accompanied by an assortment of flowers and fruits, including pomegranate, prunus, finger citron, peach, and pinks, the sea-green glaze applied throughout thinning to a white color at the rim, supported on a slightly tapered foot.

Note: Celadon-glazed bowls of this molded decoration are rare although a very similar example, from the collection of the Tsui Museum of Art, Hong Kong, and illustrated in the museum's catalogue The Tsui Art Museum, Hong Kong, 1991, cat. no. 127, was sold at Christie's Hong Kong, 3rd November 1996, lot 570. Compare another closely related bowl, also with a Qianlong reign mark and of the period, sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 27th April 1993, lot 86; and a third piece sold in these rooms, 23rd October 1976, lot 278.

Sotheby's. Fine Chinese Ceramics & Works of Art. 16 Sep 09. New York.