Lot 1412. A rare and unusual faux coral lacquered wood 'branch', 18th-early 19th century; 22 1/8 in. (56.3 cm.) high overall. Estimate USD 15,000 - USD 18,000. Price realised USD 50,000. © Christie's Images Ltd 2011.

Carved in the form of a coral 'branch' and covered in an orange-colored lacquer, issuing from amidst small coral pieces set in a gilt-copper basin cast around the exterior with two bands containing reserves of lotus plants amidst lotus scroll, with a pair of applied mask and ring handles on either side, the whole set into a wood base. 

Provenance: Acquired in the 1960s.

Note: The use of coral and imitation coral as decorative elements in the Palace was widespread throughout the 18th and early 19th centuries. See Tributes from Guangdong to the Qing Court, Hong Kong, 1987, figs. 8, 61-62, for three coral-inset jardinières dated to the Qianlong period.

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art Part I and Part II Including Property from the Arthur M. Sackler Collections, New York, 24 March 2011