Lot 2980. A fine Yue moulded and carved ‘peony’ box and cover, Song dynasty (960-1279); 4 7/8 in. (12.4 cm.) diam. Estimate HKD 150,000 - HKD 250,000. Price realised HKD 175,000. © Christie's Images Ltd 2017

The slightly domed cover is well carved in relief with a peony sprig in the central medallion, all within a triple-line border and further encircled by short incised cloud along the edge of the cover. The veining of the petals lightly incised with combed lines and the box is supported on a splayed foot. Both the box and cover, with the exception of the rims, are covered inside and out with a thin greenish-olive glaze that continues onto the base which shows traces of linear spur marks; Japanese paulownia wood box.

Provenance: A Japanese private collection, acquired in the 1980s or before.

Note: Yue boxes of this form, with a slightly domed cover, flared foot, and angled edges, was undoubtedly inspired by Sassanian silver wares in the Tang dynasty. Ceramic examples first appeared in the Tang dynasty and gained popularity during the Song period. The box may well have been intended to hold ladies’ cosmetics.