A GUAN-TYPE LINGZHI-FORM VASE, CHINA, 18TH-19TH CENTURY
A GUAN-TYPE LINGZHI-FORM VASE, CHINA, 18TH-19TH CENTURY
Scientific Analysis Report: A thermoluminescence analysis report issued by Oxford Authentication on 5 January 2026, based on sample number P125s40, sets the firing date of the one sample taken between 150 and 270 years ago, consistent with the dating above. A copy of the report accompanies this lot.
Expert's note: This fine lingzhi-form vase is distinguished by its richly crackled glaze, the skillfully modeled chilong, and its unusual composition with multiple openings. The four lower fungi each serve as vessels alongside the distinctively curved mushroom at the top. Such a design makes the present piece especially versatile—well suited as a spill vase, holding the thin twists of paper or wood once used to transfer fire, while equally apt for scholarly functions, including use as a brush or incense holder.
China. Exquisitely modeled in openwork as a cluster of seven lingzhi sprouting naturally from a rounded base, their slender stems curving upward to support broad, lobed caps. A slender chilong sinuously writhes below the uppermost cap, descending in a graceful coil, roaring at a small bat perched upon another cap.
Covered overall in a thick pale gray glaze suffused with a dense network of black crackle.
Provenance: French trade. Acquired from an estate in Paris, France.
Condition: Overall condition commensurate with age, showing expected wear, traces of use, and manufacturing irregularities including small firing cracks. With a few minor losses and minute chips to exposed areas; one chilong leg and several lingzhi stems show old repairs. The base with a small hole from sample taking, now filled.
Weight: 1,708 g
Dimensions: Height 22.5 cm (excl. stand), 24.5 cm (incl. stand)
With an associated fitted black-lacquered wood stand. (2)
Auction result comparison:
Type: Closely related
Auction: Christie's London, 15 December 2016, lot 130
Price: GBP 9,375 or approx.
EUR 16,500 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A Chinese flambe-glazed 'lingzhi' small spill vase, late 18th/early 19th century
Expert remark: Compare the closely related form and modeling. Note the different glaze and size (12 cm).
Auction result comparison:
Type: Closely related
Auction: Sotheby's New York, 16 September 2014, lot 162
Estimate: USD 15,000 or approx.
EUR 17,500 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A 'guan'-type lingzhi-shaped brush washer qing dynasty, 18th / 19th century
Expert remark: Compare related guan-type glaze and lingzhi decoration. Note the different form.
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30%
Sale price
Estimate
Time, Location
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A GUAN-TYPE LINGZHI-FORM VASE, CHINA, 18TH-19TH CENTURY
Scientific Analysis Report: A thermoluminescence analysis report issued by Oxford Authentication on 5 January 2026, based on sample number P125s40, sets the firing date of the one sample taken between 150 and 270 years ago, consistent with the dating above. A copy of the report accompanies this lot.
Expert's note: This fine lingzhi-form vase is distinguished by its richly crackled glaze, the skillfully modeled chilong, and its unusual composition with multiple openings. The four lower fungi each serve as vessels alongside the distinctively curved mushroom at the top. Such a design makes the present piece especially versatile—well suited as a spill vase, holding the thin twists of paper or wood once used to transfer fire, while equally apt for scholarly functions, including use as a brush or incense holder.
China. Exquisitely modeled in openwork as a cluster of seven lingzhi sprouting naturally from a rounded base, their slender stems curving upward to support broad, lobed caps. A slender chilong sinuously writhes below the uppermost cap, descending in a graceful coil, roaring at a small bat perched upon another cap.
Covered overall in a thick pale gray glaze suffused with a dense network of black crackle.
Provenance: French trade. Acquired from an estate in Paris, France.
Condition: Overall condition commensurate with age, showing expected wear, traces of use, and manufacturing irregularities including small firing cracks. With a few minor losses and minute chips to exposed areas; one chilong leg and several lingzhi stems show old repairs. The base with a small hole from sample taking, now filled.
Weight: 1,708 g
Dimensions: Height 22.5 cm (excl. stand), 24.5 cm (incl. stand)
With an associated fitted black-lacquered wood stand. (2)
Auction result comparison:
Type: Closely related
Auction: Christie's London, 15 December 2016, lot 130
Price: GBP 9,375 or approx.
EUR 16,500 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A Chinese flambe-glazed 'lingzhi' small spill vase, late 18th/early 19th century
Expert remark: Compare the closely related form and modeling. Note the different glaze and size (12 cm).
Auction result comparison:
Type: Closely related
Auction: Sotheby's New York, 16 September 2014, lot 162
Estimate: USD 15,000 or approx.
EUR 17,500 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A 'guan'-type lingzhi-shaped brush washer qing dynasty, 18th / 19th century
Expert remark: Compare related guan-type glaze and lingzhi decoration. Note the different form.
Buyer's Premium
30%
Sale price
Estimate
Time, Location
Auction House
