A FINE AND VERY RARE IMPERIAL BEIJING PURPLE GLASS BRUSHWASHER

Details

A FINE AND VERY RARE IMPERIAL BEIJING PURPLE GLASS BRUSHWASHER
QIANLONG CARVED SIX-CHARACTER SEALMARK AND OF THE PERIOD (1736-1795)

Of rectangular cross-section, the vertical sides finely carved with a floral bloom divided by chilong clambering on the four rounded rectangular corners, each with a lingzhi spray in its mouth, the head turned towards its curled bifurcated tail forming the four corner feet, the base bearing the reign mark carved in relief, the transparent material of amethyst tone
3 1/2 in. (8.8 cm.) across, stand, box

Provenance

Sackville Collection, by repute

Lot Essay

Previously sold at Sotheby's London, 7 June 2000, lot 72.

Amethyst-coloured glass wares are quite rare in the 18th century; this small washer of a rich and deep tone takes on an almost gem-like quality.

The material can be compared to a related purple glass vase carved with a pair of mock animal-mask handles, dated to the 18th century, included in the Exhibition of Chinese Glass: The Hope Danby Collection, Messrs S. Marchant & Son, London, 1999, and illustrated in the Catalogue, no. 11; and three other undecorated vases also from the same collection, illustrated ibid., no. 7 a/b and no. 9.

More from THE IMPERIAL SALE

View All