CHINE, DYNASTIE QING, XVIIIE-XIXE SIÈCLE ÉLÉMENTS FLORAUX EN PIERRES DURES : DÉBUT DU XXE SIÈCLE

A pair of enamel jardinières mounted with hardstone floral arrangements, the present works belong to the celebrated tradition of Qing imperial “treasure bonsai”. The jardinières are executed in champlevé enamel, a technique in which recessed designs carved into the metal surface are filled with coloured enamels and fired, creating a rich relief effect distinct from cloisonné enamel. Closely associated with the Qianlong period court workshops, such luxurious objects combined gilt metal, enamel and precious hardstones to produce elaborate decorative displays intended for palace interiors, festive occasions and religious offerings. Crafted from different hardstones and other precious materials, these everlasting floral compositions embodied the Qing court taste for technical refinement, opulence and auspicious symbolism.