Lot 146. A large famille rose 'luohan and lotus' punchbowl, Qing dynasty, Qianlong-Jiaqing period (1736-1820). Diamètre: 35 cm. (13 ¾ in.). Estimate EUR 5,000 - EUR 7,000. Price realised EUR 10,000. © Christie's Image Ltd 2020.

En forme de lotus et reposant sur un petit pied droit, les cinquante-quatre pétales sont tous ornés d'un luohan différent. Ils sont vêtus de robes souples, les visages souriants, méditatifs ou sereins, chacun tenant son attribut. Le centre de l'intérieur est à décor de Budai assis contre sa bourse, tenant son sceptre dans la main.

Provenance: Previously in a French private collection.

Note: Luohan, also known as Arhat in Sanskrit, were followers of the historical Buddha who have attained enlightenment but remained on earth to manifest their faith. They are usually depicted as middle-aged or elderly monks with shaven heads wearing heavy robes, without Vajrayana ornamentation. In early depictions, they are usually shown with Western features, but by the 11th-12th centuries they are more frequently portrayed as ethnically Chinese such as in this present bowl.

Christie's. Art d'Asie, Paris, 23 June 2020