YONGZHENG SIX-CHARACTER SEAL MARK IN UNDERGLAZE BLUE AND OF THE PERIOD (1723-1735)

The present vase is modelled after the prototype from the Qing-dynasty Xiqing gujian (Catalogue of the Xiqing Antiquities), vol. 20, “Han shou huan fanghu “ (fanghu with monster-mask handles from Han dynasty). The mouth is more decorative than the Han-dynasty fanghu, which complements the elegance of the vessel’s shape. This is a rare example of antiquarianism from the Yongzheng official kilns. Compare to other ge-type glazed vessels with similar form and design, see one from the Palace Museum, Beijing, illustrated in The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum - Monochrome Porcelain, vol. 37, Hong Kong, 1999, p. 249, no. 227. Also compare to a Yongzheng hu vase with a pear-shaped body sold at Christie’s Hong Kong, 30 May 2005, lot 1488.