Lot 793. A gilt-decorated blue-glazed 'dragon' vase, Guangxu six-character seal mark in gilt and of the period (1875-1908); 15 ¼ in. (38.7 cm.) high. Estimate USD 8,000 - USD 12,000. Price realised USD 13,750. © Christie's 2021

The vase is decorated on the globular body with a pair of five-clawed dragons in pursuit of a flaming pearl amidst flames and stylized clouds, all between bands of cresting waves below and shou characters and lotus sprays above. The neck is similarly decorated with another five-clawed dragon in pursuit of a flaming pearl below a band of ruyi heads.

Provenance: Acquired in Virginia, 1983.

Christie's. Important Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, New York, 23-24 september 2021