Lot 1934. A fine large blue and white beaker vase, gu, Kangxi six-character mark within double-circles and of the period (1662-1772); 16 1/2 in. (42 cm.) high. Estimate HKD 120,000 - HKD 180,000. Price realised HKD 1,590,000. © Christies Image Ltd 2013

The vase is sturdily potted with a splayed foot rising steeply to a globular mid-section and under a wide trumpet-shaped mouth. The central bulbous section is painted with sprays of peony and peach blossom dividing two scenes of magpies perched on prunus branches and butterflies in flight amidst fruiting peach tree.. 

Note: This type of beaker vase is typical of the early Kangxi period, evolved from the late Ming form of a gentle unbroken curve from rim to foot, and with a slightly curved central section. Compare to an inscribed example decorated with figures, fruits and birds, dating to 1663, included in the exhibition Transitional Wares and Their Forerunners, Hong Kong Museum of Art, 1981, Catalogue, pp. 92-93, pl. 91. Another Kangxi example shares similar themes of flowers, birds and butterflies is illustrated in Blue and White Porcelain with Underglaze Red III, The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum, Hong Kong, 2000, p. 42, no. 35.

Christie's. IN PURSUIT OF REFINEMENT - A LEGACY OF THE YC CHEN COLLECTION. Hong Kong, 29 May 2013