Chinese
A Very Rare Chinese Blue and White ‘Mythical Beast’ Hexafoil Basin, Wanli Mark and Period (1572-1620)
porcelain
4 1/2 x 14 x 13 5/8 in, 11.3 x 35.7 x 34.5 cm
Estimate: $10,000 - $15,000 CAD
Sold for: $46,250
Preview at: Heffel Toronto – 13 Hazelton Ave
PROVENANCE
A Distinguished Private Collection, Vancouver
The basin is heavily potted, with lobed sides rising from a flat base to an everted rim. The interior and rim are decorated with continuous scenes of mythical beasts and natural elements, encircling the Qilin beast elevated on a platform in the sunken central medallion. The exterior is adorned with blooming peony motifs and a scrolling floral border along the underside of the rim. The base bears a six-character Wanli mark on a recessed panel.
The current basin is rare for its large size, hexafoil shape and auspicious subject matter. It depicts a mythical Qilin, a beast with the head and scales of a dragon, mane of a lion, and antlers and hooves of a deer. These beasts usually appear from the heavens during the succession of a ruler. Here the Qilin is shown standing on a high pedestal, while surrounded by other forest creatures, both real and imaginary. The quality of the animals are well-painted and endearing, and this basin is an exceptional example of late Ming Dynasty porcelain design.
Please note the condition report for this lot.
All prices are in Canadian Dollars
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condition of the Lot prior to bidding. Condition reports are available upon request.