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17th-Century Chinese Imari Porcelain Jars, Circa 1680. Photo courtesy M.S. Rau Antiques.
Complete and excellent condition. Jars: 33 1/8" high. With bases: 44" high. Price: $228,500
Incredible rarity and size make this stellar pair of late 17th-century Chinese Imari porcelain jars truly remarkable. They are the most quintessential examples of Chinese Imari porcelain we have ever had the pleasure to offer. Standing at nearly three feet high, the jars were crafted in a baluster, or "potiche" shape during the reign of the Kangxi Emperor, the fourth of the Qing Dynasty, who ruled from 1661-1722. The forms are adorned with wonderfully vivid blue underglaze, with red and gold overglaze in a fanciful motif of winged and horse-like creatures surrounded by a foliate backdrop. The pair is complete with their original lids, which are topped by gilded "foo dogs" or Chinese guardian lions. A pair of exceptionally crafted Italian mercury-gilded bronze bases dating to the 18th century were created specifically for these jars, and serve to elevate the importance and beauty of these 17th century porcelain masterpieces.
A similar pair of Chinese Imari baluster jars are exhibited at the National Tile Museum of Portugal in Lisbon.
M.S. Rau Antiques. http://www.rauantiques.com/
