Lot 27. A wucai 'squirrels and grapevine' vase, Shunzhi Period (1644-1661); 35.6cm diam. Sold for US$2,176. © Bonhams 2001-2024

The slender baluster body rising to rounded shoulders, a subtly waisted neck, and a galleried rim, densely painted with iron-red and aubergine-enameled squirrels clambering amongst vines issuing a dense array of bright cobalt-blue and emerald-green leaves and polychrome clusters of fruit, the neck painted with peonies and rockwork between a 'cracked ice' band at the shoulder and a fret band at the rim.

Provenance: John L. Young, Cleveland, 1995

Note: The motif of squirrels with trailing vines may be a visual metaphor for a wish for many sons and the continuation of the family line, as squirrels have large litters and long vines represent an enduring family lineage.

For a vase with the identical motif and similar design, see one sold at Christie's, New York, 23 January 2007, lot 38; and a jar of this motif sold in our London rooms, 30 October 2023, lot 38.

Bonhams. THE KRAUSE COLLECTION OF CHINESE AND JAPANESE CERAMICS THREE DECADES OF CONNOISSEURSHIP, Online, Los Angeles, 1 – 11 December 2023