A PAIR OF FAMILLE ROSE PISTOL-HANDLED URNS AND COVERS

LATE QIANLONG

Details

A PAIR OF FAMILLE ROSE PISTOL-HANDLED URNS AND COVERS
late qianlong
Modelled after a European neo-classical faïence prototype, of characteristic oviform body shape with canted shoulder and concave neck applied with two gilt pistol handles suspending moulded and enamelled floral garlands enclosing a flower-and-insect medallion at either side, all supported on a tall foot and square base, the shallow domed cover with cone finial, some restoration
16 in. (40.5 cm.) high (2)

Lot Essay

Vases of this form were derived from a vase with rising hooked handles shown in the etching by Stefano della Bella (1610-1664), probably through a drawing by Robert Adam; see Sir John Soane's Museum, Adam Drawings, 25, no.157. The design was much used, especially during the period of the English 'vase mania' from about 1770 onwards. Compare the silver vase of this form, with London hallmarks for 1770-1771, illustrated by T. Clifford, Some English ceramic vases and their sources, pt.1, English Ceramic Circle Transactions No.10, pt.3, 1978, pl.76b.

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