One of the most successful new styles to be rediscovered in the Kangxi reign was that of painting in very fine outlines in underglaze copper-red, as evident by the present waterpot. Firing underglaze-red is difficult, requiring precision in the control of heat, atmosphere and air circulation within the kiln, as well as the careful preparation of the copper pigment itself. The current waterpot is well executed as seen from its fine painting and richness of colour.

Other waterpots of this shape and design from important collections are published: one from the C. P. Lin collection, included in the exhibition Elegant Form and Harmonious Decoration, The Percival David Foundation, London, 1992, and illustrated in the Catalogue, no. 113; one illustrated by R. Krahl, Chinese Ceramics from the Meiyintang Collection, vol. II, London, 1994, no. 733; one in the Palace Museum, Beijing, illustrated in Kangxi Yongzheng Qianlong, Hong Kong, 1989, p. 39, pl. 22; and another from the Shanghai Museum, illustrated in Kangxi Porcelain Wares, Hong Kong, 1998, pl. 72. Compare also the waterpot from the Edward T. Chow collection, sold at Sotheby's Hong Kong, 19 May 1981, lot 540; and another from the Yuen Family Collection, sold in these Rooms, 30 April 2000, lot 591.