On 20 and 21 November, UK auction house Chorley’s is hosting a sale of art, antiques and jewellery. While there are over 950 lots on offer, included is an outstanding selection of 80 pieces of Asian art.
Of particular note is this 18th-century pale celadon jade heron. It has been carved with its head along its back, clutching a peace branch.
When it comes to celadon, the very pale glaze is among the most famous and desired shades available. This particular piece measures 5.75 cm wide.
Another pale celadon jade work is this carving of lingzhi (mushrooms) with a beetle on top, measuring 6.5 cm in width.
This pair of full tip rhinoceros horn libation cups hail from the late Qing dynasty. They feature carved animals, prunus blossom and foliage, and they measure 44 cm and 50 cm high (75 cm with stand), weighing approx. 2409 gm on hardwood stands.
They were acquired by the father of the vendor from Powis Castle in the 1940s.
This large pair of Chinese cloisonné vases come in sky blue with intricate patterns in green, yellow, red and gold. The neck and base of the vases pull in, while the chests swell out.
Modelled as a miniature sword and scabbard, this 15 cm long Chinese scholar’s or artist’s paper knife was found in the attic of a Welsh country house. It comes with a decoration of rest crested cranes, a horse and script.
Finally, while this ring isn’t included in the ‘Asian art’ category of the sale, the sapphire and diamond beauty is difficult to ignore. The oval sapphire is surrounded by diamonds in a galleried setting to an unhallmarked yellow metal shank.
The Asian art portion of Chorley’s sale (alongside the jewellery) is to take place on Tuesday 20 November. Get your paddles ready.
