Doyle’s Asian works of art auction on March 22 drew bidders from across the world, vying for a diverse range of items including porcelains, bronzes, jades, snuff bottles, pottery, scholar’s objects, furniture, and paintings from esteemed collections and estates. Held during Asia Week New York, this highly anticipated sale showcased the rich arts of China, Japan, and other parts of Asia, spanning from the Neolithic period to the Twentieth Century.
One standout piece of the auction was an extraordinary Eighteenth Century Chinese imperial porcelain ewer, which exceeded its estimated value and sold for an impressive $441,000. What makes this ewer truly unique is its unusual form and obscure function, as well as the rare mark indicating the Qianlong period, which has never been seen before. However, all experts who examined the piece agreed on its impeccable quality and provenance from C.T. Loo & Cie.
The ewer’s vibrant underglaze blue decoration features the Eight Buddhist emblems and delicate lotus floral scrolls, reflecting the artistic excellence and the Qianlong emperor’s personal devotion to Buddhist philosophy during the period it was made. Originating from a collection in Washington DC, the final selling price of $441,000 surpassed the high expectations of its many admirers, making it a highlight of the auction.
