Lot 1308. A fine and extremely rare famille rose bowl, Yongzheng six-character mark within double-squares and of the period (1723-1735); 4 3/4 in. (12 cm.) diam. Estimate HKD 5,500,000 - HKD 6,500,000. Price Realized HKD 5,496,000. © Christie's Images Ltd 2006. 

Finely potted with thin, rounded sides rising to a gently everted rim, and exquisitely enamelled with a narrow central band of five iron-red bats, wufu, in different attitudes of flight amidst a scrolling vine issuing gourds in varying stages of growth, large leaves in two shades of green, curled tendrils, yellow buds and blossoms, all above a stylised band of curled pink petals with veining encircling the foot, box.  

Exhibited: Christie's London, An Exhibition of Important Chinese Ceramics from the Robert Chang Collection, 2-14 June 1993, Catalogue no. 93. 

Note: Previously sold in these Rooms, 17 January 1989, lot 688.

No other example of a Yongzheng-marked bowl with this very distinctive design appears to be published. This is surprising, since the design is both very successful in its spacing and colour combination, and highly auspicious. The five bats, wufu, represent the Five Blessings of health, wealth, long life, the love of virtue and a peaceful end to one's life, while the gourd, one of the symbols of Daoism, is associated with longevity. Together, the combination of the imagery suggest ripe happiness and longevity.

For two Qianlong-marked triple vases with the same subject in famille rose enamels and iron-red, reserved on a turquoise ground, see Sekai Toji Zenshu, vol. 15, Japan, 1983, pl. 233, from the Tokyo National Museum; and Porcelains with Cloisonne Enamel Decoration and Famille Rose Decoration, The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum, Hong Kong, 1999, pl. 116.

Christie's. Imperial Chinese Ceramics from the Robert Chang Collection - Jade Shears and Shimmering Feathers, Hong Kong, 28 November 2006