Lot Essay
The present lot exemplifies a new style developed in the Kangxi reign, that of painting in very fine outlines in copper-red. Firing underglaze-red successfully is technically difficult, requiring precision in the control of temperature, atmosphere and air circulation within the kiln, as well as the careful preparation of the copper pigment itself. The skill reached its maturity during the Qianlong period under Tang Ying, the supervisor of the Imperial kilns.
The shape and design of this water pot appear to be unique with no other examples published. Compare to a water pot of a similar form and decorated with the 'three abundances' in underglaze-red, included in the exhibition, Zhongguo mingtao zhan, Japan, co-organised by the National History Museum, Taipei, 1992, Catalogue, p. 126, no. 142; and a doucai 'three abundances' example sold at Sotheby's Hong Kong, 2 May 1995, lot 144.
The shape and design of this water pot appear to be unique with no other examples published. Compare to a water pot of a similar form and decorated with the 'three abundances' in underglaze-red, included in the exhibition, Zhongguo mingtao zhan, Japan, co-organised by the National History Museum, Taipei, 1992, Catalogue, p. 126, no. 142; and a doucai 'three abundances' example sold at Sotheby's Hong Kong, 2 May 1995, lot 144.