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PROPERTY FROM A EUROPEAN COLLECTION (LOTS 54 - 128) The owner of this fine collection, who wishes to remain anonymous, was born in Indonesia and grew up in the Dutch East Indies. It is probable that the passion for ceramics which he brought to the acquisition of the current collection was initially stimulated by his grandmother's love of porcelain. He made his first purchase of a piece of porcelain shortly after arriving in Europe in 1966. There he was inspired and educated in the fields of both European and Chinese ceramics by his companion and partner, who was the co-owner of a thriving antique shop. His enthusiasm for porcelain has continued to the present day. As is evident from the pieces in this sale, the collection has been formed with tremendous affection and care: at all times buying only top quality examples in excellent condition. In several instances, the vendor purchased a single plate, vase or jar - always of exceptional quality and beautiful decoration - and at a later date was delighted to find an identical example. It afforded him particular pleasure to assemble pairs in this way. An example of this good fortune, was the first piece he acquired for his collection: a very rare plate which, in addition to the usual famille rose palette, includes an extremely unusual 'oxblood' red enamel. He was greatly surprised, and absolutely delighted, many years later when he came across another similar plate and was able to purchase it (Lot 119). He has also been fortunate enough to receive certain fine porcelain pieces as gifts, including some from very eminent figures. His passion for porcelain is closely followed - and may indeed be equalled - by his passion for roses. His garden has a spectacular display of roses, which have been acquired with the same care, expertise, and eye for rarity and beauty that he brings to his porcelain collection. In looking at the decoration on many of his porcelains, one is tempted to see links beteween this and his love for his garden. The magnificent octagonal lidded jars (Lot 106), for example, bear a very unusual decorative scheme resembling eight framed windows looking out onto a continuous and delightfully painted garden scene.

A GILT-SPLASHED BRONZE 'DOUBLE' VASE

17TH/18TH CENTURY

Details

A GILT-SPLASHED BRONZE 'DOUBLE' VASE
17TH/18TH CENTURY
Cast as two vases joined at the widest point of the body and 'tied' together with a rope crossing between the necks and tied in a bow at either side, the vases each of pear shape with a flaring neck, everted rim, and spreading tall foot, the bronze with an even brown patina and the exteriors and interior of the mouth rims applied with large and small gilt splashes, the underside of each vase cast with a circular one-character mark xuan and de
9 3/8 in. (23.8 cm.) high, wood stand

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VAT rate of 5% is payable on hammer price plus buyer's premium.

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