A Rare Ge-Type hu-Form Vase. Yongzheng Seal Mark in underglaze blue and of the Period (1723-1735). Photo: Christie's Images Ltd 2012.

The pear-shaped vase is raised on a spreading foot and molded with two double bow-string bands below a pair of molded mask-form handles suspending fixed rings applied to the shoulder that flank the tall neck. The vase covered overall with an opaque pale grey glaze suffused with an irregular pattern of dark grey ('iron wire') crackle. 9 7/8 in. (24.9 cm.) high, box - Estimate $180,000 - $250,000

Provenance: Bluett & Sons (according to label). 

Notes: The grey glaze suffused with dark grey crackle was inspired by the glazes found on Ge wares of Southern Song and Yuan date; one of the Song dynasty glazes greatly admired by the emperors of the high Qing. During the Yongzheng reign, much research and development was undertaken in order to reproduce the glazes of these wares on porcelains made at the imperial kilns at Jingdezhen. While many of these porcelains also imitate Song shapes, the form of the present hu was probably inspired by an ancient bronze vessel.

A closely related, Ge-type vase, also with a Yongzheng seal mark, and of the period, was sold at Sotheby Parke Bernet (Hong Kong), 21-22 May 1984, lot 180. 

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art Part I. 13 - 14 September 2012, New York, Rockefeller Plaza