Lot 3246. A very large blue and white hexagonal jar, Wanli period (1573-1619); 19 in. (48.3 cm.) high. Estimate HKD 600,000 - HKD 800,000. Price realised HKD 750,000. © Christie's Images Ltd 2014   

The jar is boldly decorated with large lobed panels enclosing pairs of animals, comprising cranes, pheasants, tigers, peacocks, deer and eagles, interspersed with cloud scrolls between a band of ruyi-heads and scrolling foliage above a lappet band. The shoulders are decorated with shaped cartouches enclosing a crane amongst cloud scrolls, all on a ground of scrolling foliage, box.

Note: The use of lobed panels to emphasize and separate design elements such as birds and animals is discussed by J. Rawson in Chinese Ornament: The Lotus and the Dragon, London, 1984, p. 125-127. The detached lobed panels that enclose the main decoration on the present lot find their source from the outlines of mirrors and silverware. 

Christie's. Important Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, 26 November 2014, Hong Kong, HKCEC Grand Hall