Lot 123. A yellow agate 'Three friends' vase, Qing dynasty, 19th century. Hauteur: 14,5 cm. (5 ¾ in.). Estimate EUR 10,000 - EUR 15,000. Price realised EUR 26,250. © Christie’s Images Limited 2018.

La forme évoquant un tronc d'arbre, la panse est ornée d'un phénix et de lingzhi dans un jardin rocailleux. Il est parcouru de branchages feuillagés de pin, prunus et de bambous symbolisant les 'Trois Amis de l'Hiver', socle. 

Provenance: French private collection, acquired by the grand-father of the present owner in France in the 1920s.

Note: The current design combining pine tree, prunus and bamboo is known collectively as the "Three Friends of Winter". This auspicious design is thought to represent the traditional scholar virtues of fortitude and uprightness in adversity as the pine and bamboo are evergreen and the prunus is the first to bloom each spring.