This February 16th at Clars, the Asian Art Department will offer a diverse array of Asian masterpieces that span several cultures and historical periods.

A special highlight is the 19th century Chinese celadon jade tripod censer and cover. This exquisite piece, measuring 10.25″ across, is of a globular form adorned with stylized phoenixes in raised relief. It boasts peony branch handles with loose rings, is supported on three short, splayed legs originating from lion masks, and is topped with a domed cover crowned by a mythical beast-shaped finial.

Another notable highlight is the Ming dynasty fahua ceramic figure of a Luohan. This piece, characterized by the vibrant and intricate fahua glazing technique, reflects the religious significance and artistic depth of the Ming dynasty.

We will be offering additional highlights from the Qing dynasty, including a Chinese famille rose and underglaze bluebird and flower hu-form vase which showcases intricate and colorful depictions of avian and floral motifs. A Chinese enameled 100 deer hu-form vase is another masterpiece available that features a multitude of deer in various stances — symbolizing longevity and prosperity. Lastly, the Chinese jade and hardstone embellished lacquer wall panel up for auction is a testament to exquisite craftsmanship, combining luxurious materials in a harmonious design.

Another standout feature in the sale is the collection of jade carvings, crafted in the 18th-century Mughal style. These pieces, including intricately designed teapots and incense boxes, blend Indian and Chinese artistry, highlighting the rich Mughal influence.

Also to be featured is a remarkable late 19th century Japanese inlaid bronze koro and cover, crafted by Ohashi San’emon (1851–1895) during the Meiji period. Measuring 14.125″ in height, this piece is distinguished by a pixiu finial and is elaborately decorated with auspicious symbols in copper, silver, and gilt. The inscription, “Dai Nihon Ohashi Sam’emon seizo,” on the underside further authenticates its origin.

Clars invites art enthusiasts and collectors this February 16th to explore these treasures and more.

Jade, porcelain, glazed pottery, antique textiles, scrolls and paintings sourced from various distinguished estates and private collections will headline the Fine Asian Art Auction to be held on Friday, August 11th. Our inaugural Timed Asian Decorative Arts Auction will feature Chinese jade and hardstone carvings, Chinese ceramics, furniture items, Chinese scrolls, Japanese woodblocks, and works of art. Bids will be accepted 8/5–8/14.

One of the August 11th sale highlights is a Chinese cloisonné enameled gilt bronze meiping vase from the 17th century, with an estimate of $6,000–$9,000. The exterior is decorated with two registers of flower blossoms amidst leafy scrolls, all against a blue enameled ground and between vertical lappets. The upper section is further decorated with large ribbon roundels.

Another highlight in the auction is a large Chinese iron-red decorated ‘dragon’ charger. This charger has two energetic five-clawed dragons, amongst ruyi-clouds, which are chasing a precious flaming pearl heightened in gold. Two additional dragons are on the exterior walls engaged in the same pursuit. The charger has a Guangxu six-character mark in regular script and is of the Guangxu period. This lot is estimated at $2,000–$4,000.

A Chinese famille verte phoenix-tail vase, depicting an auspicious bird perching on wutong and flowering plum trees over a lotus pond with Mandarin ducks, will be featured in the sale as well. This lot is estimated at $5,000–$7,000.

Another interesting item in the sale is a large Chinese grisaille-decorated ‘figural’ vase, with a globular body that was skillfully painted with a fictional scene. The scene depicts a figure bowing to a seated official figure, surrounded by an additional nine figures. One side of the vase has an inscription echoing the painted scene, dated ‘renshen,’ corresponding to 1932. There are three painted seals and the slightly waisted long neck is decorated with geometric bands, ruyi-heads, and stylized lappets. The rim and some of the painted details are highlighted in gilt, and the recessed base bears an apocryphal ‘Kangxi yu zhi’ mark. The vase will be offered at an estimate of $4,000–$6,000.

Also up for auction is a Chinese embroidered lady’s turquoise-ground silk robe, estimated at $2,000–$4,000. The slender robe has a right side opening and a turquoise-green ground made of brightly colored silk floss. The robe is embroidered with pleasant flowering branches and butterflies. It’s lined with purple floral ribbon and wide black bands that are embroidered with a similar flower and butterfly theme.

Additional highlights of the sale include a Tang dynasty sancai glazed pottery horse, amphora vase, a group of four Qing dynasty imperial edicts, work by Zhu Qizhan, and various archaic and later period jade carvings.

The Han Dynasty was known for its exquisite craftsmanship and artistic design. Today, surviving examples of Han Dynasty vases, vessels, and figures are highly prized and collected for their historical importance and artistic value.

Typically Ding vessels feature a round body and a lid, creating a covered container. They are often adorned with intricate relief decorations depicting various motifs such as mythical creatures, dragons, birds, animals, or geometric patterns. These decorative elements were meticulously cast into the bronze surface and sometimes embellished with additional details using techniques like engraving or inlay.

The above vessel was produced during the Han Dynasty, 206 BCE to 220 CE in China. This type of vessel was made using the technique of bronze casting, which involved pouring molten bronze into molds.

Ding vessels were highly valued for their ceremonial and ritual significance. They were used for a variety of purposes, including storing and presenting offerings, as well as serving as burial objects or prestigious gifts. They are considered to be symbols of status and wealth, reflecting the sophisticated artistic taste of the Han Dynasty.

Han Dynasty works provide valuable insights into the ancient Chinese civilization and the advanced metalworking techniques of the time.