Lot 284. Two blue and white boxes and covers, 18th-19th century. The largest, 9 3/8 in. (23.7 cm.) diam. Estimate GBP 5,000 - GBP 8,000. Price realised GBP 12,500. © Christie's Images Ltd 2018.

The cover of the rectangular box is decorated with a central shou roundel surrounded by lotus scroll and bats in the corners. The sides of the box are painted with lotus scroll. The circular box is decorated with a central phoenix surrounded by phoenixes in flight, all on a floral background. 

Property from the Zhidao Zhai Collection.

Note: This selection of Chinese works of art reflect the literati sensibilities and intellectual interests of the owner of the Zhidao Zhai (“Studio of the Way of Determination”), who was a European diplomat and scholar. Through his career he served in several Asian capitals, including in China, in the second half of the 20th century. As a versatile linguist, he wrote extensively on Asian literature and history. His cultural interests led to acquaintances with several artists and academics, including Fu Baoshi, Pu Ru, Dong Zuobin, and Zeng Keduan.

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, London, 15 May 2018