This exquisite vase, which sold for $630,000, is an ancient artifact that carries a touching story that spans more than half a century.
Asian Art
Stories & News
April Fine AsianArt Highlights
Asian Art
Auction
On April 18th, Clars Auctions will present a series of exquisite collectibles at its Spring Fine Asian Art Auction for collectors. This auction will feature a multitude of valuable artworks, spanning categories such as furniture, porcelain, embroidery, modern contemporary art, and miscellaneous high-quality items.
The furniture section is led by a pair of 18th-century Chinese Huanghuali Southern official hat chairs. The official hat chairs originated in the Song Dynasty and became popular during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Due to their outstanding appearance and positive symbolism, they have long been favored by officials and scholars and are also loved by people worldwide. The name “official hat chair” comes from its design, where the back is high and the front low, resembling the ancient official’s hat. In fact, chairs with armrests generally have this shape. Today, artisans in Beijing often refer to chairs with both the backrest and armrests protruding as “Four-headed official hat chairs,” while those with non-protruding are called “Southern official hat chairs.” Clars presents a pair of official hat chairs with the distinctive style of the Jiangnan region. The piece features a rare three-section backrest design, with clean, flowing armrest lines, and no use of stretchers, showcasing the classic charm of craftsmanship.
A pair of Chinese Huanghuali Southern official hat chairs. Estimate: $20,000–$40,000
The porcelain section prominently features a Chinese yellow-ground famille rose foliate jardiniere and stand. Both the jardiniere and stand are elegantly shaped like a chrysanthemum, with the jardiniere having relatively deep walls featuring two round holes; the stand has low, shallow side walls and is without holes. Both pieces are supported by four ruyi-cloud-shaped feet. The exteriors are meticulously painted with lotus patterns and the eight Buddhist symbols’ motif. The base is marked with the iron-red Jiaqing six-character mark.
A Chinese yellow-ground famille rose foliate jardinière and stand. Estimate: $6,000–$9,000
This season, we will also introduce a series of selected embroidery pieces, with the highlight being an 18th-century Qing dynasty imperial yellow satin brocade robe, chuba with gold dragon patterns among colorful clouds. From the end of the Tang dynasty, China’s relationship with Tibet evolved with continuous political and religious exchanges during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, sending precious court-manufactured silk fabrics to Tibet. Initially reserved for the imperial court, these fabrics later became significant gifts for Tibetan nobility and high-ranking monks. In the 18th century, the Qing court custom-made luxurious silk garments for Buddhist ceremonies, granting many dragon robes, which gradually became traditional attire for Tibetan nobility.
An Imperial yellow satin brocade robe, chuba. Estimate: $30,000–$50,000
This Chuba-style robe was custom-made in Tibet from 18th-century Chinese yellow ground brocade, adorned with a five-clawed golden dragon clutching a fiery pearl amidst colorful clouds in pink, blue, green, and ochre, with a terrestrial map motif at the hem. The collar and trim are in pale blue silk depicting original wave-like edges, measuring 55 inches in height and 70 inches in width. This robe not only showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of the Qing court but also serves as an important physical testament to the historical exchanges between China and Tibet.
Chuang Che (Zhuang Zhe, b. 1934), Seasons Page, mixed media on canvas, 33″ x 49.5″. Estimate: $12,000–$18,000
The contemporary Asian section will feature two important works by Chuang Che (Zhuang Ze), a Chinese-American abstract artist. The first work, Seasons Page, was created in 1971 using mixed media on canvas and measures 33 inches in height and 49.5 inches in width, with Zhuang’s signature in Chinese at the lower left corner. This piece was exhibited at the DuBose Gallery in Houston, Texas, in 1972, and comes with Zhuang’s handwritten signature and an exhibition catalog, making it highly collectible. The second piece, Untitled Abstract Landscape, an oil painting on canvas, features the artist’s signature in Chinese at the lower right corner, framed dimensions are 39.25 inches in height and 49.5 inches in width. This painting was acquired from a San Francisco gallery in the early 1980s and originates from a private collection. Chuang’s art style blends Eastern and Western aesthetics, interpreting Chinese cultural themes through Abstract Expressionism and is highly regarded in the international art scene.
Chuang Che (Zhuang Zhe, b. 1934), Untitled Abstract Landscape, oil on canvas, 39.25″ x 49.5″. Estimate: $10,000–$15,000
Additionally, a Chinese polychrome painted wood figure of Guanyin from the Ming dynasty also make its appearance at this auction. The statue stands approximately 1.1 meters tall and is depicted in a relaxed and casual pose seated on a rock, with the right leg bent and resting against the right arm, and the left leg stretched out, stepping on a base. The sculpture is vivid and lifelike, with Guanyin wearing an exquisite, jeweled crown, displaying a serene and compassionate demeanor, and a richly detailed, delicate face. The neck and chest are adorned with a beautifully carved necklace and lavalier decorations, with elegantly flowing robe patterns, and faintly visible colors, fully reflecting the leisurely and comfortable artistic style of Water Moon Guanyin that has been prevalent since the Song and Yuan dynasties, possessing significant historical and artistic value.
A Chinese polychrome painted wood figure of Guanyin. Estimate: $10,000–$15,000
We look forward to meeting you at the Spring Fine Asian Art Auction at Clars Auctions on April 18th!
Bidding for Clars’ April auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auctions is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609. Clars Auctions is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auctions has been the chosen auction gallery of a number of institutions and distinguished private collectors across the country, including the Richard Mellon Scaife Estate, the Thomas J. Perkins Estate and The Metropolitan Museum of Art (NYC). In the last 5 years, Clars Auctions has sold well over $500,000,000 of Fine Art, Furnishings, Jewelry, Vehicles and Collectibles and has set multiple new world auction records. Follow Clars on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Auction Inquiries:
Harry Huang: [email protected] | Wechat ID: harry_xi_huang
Shannon Liu: [email protected] | Wechat ID: Shannon_Liu575
This exquisite vase, which sold for $630,000, is an ancient artifact that carries a touching story that spans more than half a century.
Asian Art
Stories & News
Sold! Rare Robin’s Egg Glazed hu-form Vase
Asian Art
Stories & News
At our Fine Asian Art Auction on December 20th 2024, Clars presented an exceptionally rare Qing Yongzheng Robin’s Egg Glazed hu-form Vase which sold for an astounding $630,000.
Are you interested in learning about the value of your items?
CONSIGN NOW for our next Fine Asian Art Auction on April 18th.
The story of this vase is as compelling as the piece itself. According to the consignor, the vase originally belonged to his mother-in-law, who lived in Brooklyn, New York, in the 1970s. She was of Swedish immigrant descent, sent to an orphanage at the age of six after her mother’s passing, and later adopted by a kind family. As an adult, she married a man who worked for Nestlé and had two sons. After her husband’s death, she returned to Brooklyn, where she lived with her family and was beloved for her involvement in church activities, playing the piano, and teaching Sunday school.
See how live bidding unfolded!
In the 1970s, she bought the vase from a street vendor’s stall in Brooklyn for a small amount. She treasured it and often displayed it on her piano, filled with dried leaves. In 1986, she moved to California to live with her son, bringing the vase along. However, the vase was forgotten for decades, stored in a shoebox in a closet until Clars Auctions rediscovered the vase, unveiling a story that had been hidden for years.
The consignor expressed, “Such a beautiful and historically significant vase should not be hidden away in a closet; it deserves to be admired by many.” And that’s exactly what happened. The remarkable vase took center stage at auction and captured the attention of collectors worldwide.
The robin’s egg glazed hu-form vase as seen in the previous owner’s home, filled with flowers on top of a piano.
The “Lujun Glaze” porcelain, also known as Robin’s Egg glaze, originated during the Yongzheng period of the Qing Dynasty, crafted at the Jingdezhen Imperial Kiln under the supervision of Tang Ying. It was named for its resemblance to the low-temperature Jun wares of the Song Dynasty. The glaze combines techniques from both Jun ware and Yixing drip-glaze, resulting in unique flowing shades of red, blue, and purple. The surface is smooth and silky, with colors that change dynamically under natural light, evoking the beauty of nature.
An exceptionally fine and rare robin’s egg glazed hu-form vase, seal mark and period of Yongzheng. Photo Credit: Wyatt Beserra @ BESERRA PHOTO Sold: $630,000
As recorded in the Record of Ceramics Completion Stele, the Lujun glaze “resembles the Eastern Kiln and Yixing drip-glaze,” with distinctive fluid patterns and colors. It represents Tang Ying’s innovative fusion of traditional styles and highlights the Qing Dynasty’s dedication to ceramic artistry and aesthetic perfection. Due to its complex production process, surviving pieces are rare and mostly palace ware, making them highly valuable collectibles and a pinnacle of Qing porcelain craftsmanship.
Detail of seal mark and base of vase.
The Chinese Robin’s egg glazed hu-form vase sold by Clars has an elegant and dignified form, showcasing a flared mouth, short neck, elongated curved body, and wide splayed foot, standing at approximately 19 centimeters tall. The mouth, neck, and belly of the vase are adorned with three string patterns, which are simple yet graceful, adding a three-dimensional effect and enhancing the visual appeal of the piece. This design reflects the refined and majestic style typical of Yongzheng porcelain. The base is engraved with a two-line, four-character mark: “Yongzheng Nian Zhi,” further indicating its imperial provenance and outstanding craftsmanship.
This April 18th we will offer pair of Arne Jacobsen for Fritz Hansen Swan chairs — sculptural, iconic, and effortlessly modern.
Design
Stories & News
Jingdezhen – The Porcelain Capital
Asian Art
Stories & News
Historically, the highest quality of porcelain produced in Jingdezhen was shaped by the preferences of the imperial family. However, by the end of the Qing dynasty (1644–1912) and the Republic period (1912–1949), these constraints began to dissolve.
Amid internal conflicts and political struggles with the Western World in the 19th century, China’s porcelain commissions dwindled. To survive, artisans had to appeal to a broader audience, which now included not only the imperial court but also officials, scholars, and the rising merchant class.
Chinese underglaze blue porcelain brush pot, attributed to Wang Bu (Chinese, 1898–1968). Sold: $534,300
This period of upheaval gave rise to a new porcelain style. Known as ‘qianjiang cai,’ this aesthetic is distinguished by its soft, subtle hues, a stark contrast to the bold and opaque enamels that had been popular before. Translated as “light umber,” ‘qianjiang cai’ drew inspiration from the literati paintings of the Song and Yuan dynasties, which achieved a sense of atmosphere through the gradual blending of ink tones. To appeal to the scholarly class, artisans in Jingdezhen began to replicate these paintings on porcelain. These soft-colored enamels were used not only for landscape scenes but also for subjects like birds-and-flowers, still-life compositions featuring auspicious objects, and figures from history, mythology, or religion.
With such a talented community of artisans, creativity and innovation were essential for survival. Among the success stories from this era are the ‘Zhushan bayou’ (Eight Friends of Zhushan), a group of artists who gathered on the full moon of every lunar month. Each member of the group had their own area of expertise and unique aesthetic preferences. Wang Qi, widely regarded as the leader of the group, was known for his depictions of figures. His masterful use of graduated, soft tones, especially in delicate facial features, created striking and evocative images that continue to captivate viewers today.
(lot of 3) Chinese ‘qianjiang’ enameled ‘landscape’ porcelain plaques. Sold: $4,095
Another notable figure from this period is Wang Bu, who sought to create a more realistic style, though not in the muted tones of ‘qianjiang cai.’ Specializing in ceramics and trained in the blue-and-white art, Wang Bu revived the portrayal of birds and flowers with his innovative technique, employing lighter shades of cobalt to contrast with the traditionally dense and bold blue of the past.
The artists of Jingdezhen during the late 19th and early 20th centuries experienced significant changes, but their creativity and adaptability ensured their survival, leaving a lasting legacy.
This April 18th we will offer pair of Arne Jacobsen for Fritz Hansen Swan chairs — sculptural, iconic, and effortlessly modern.
Design
Stories & News
Asian Art Spotlight: Dragon Skirt
Asian Art
Highlights
The Asian Art portion of the January 17th auction features important works from China, including a late 18th to early 19th century Chinese brocade blue-ground dragon skirt.
This skirt was commissioned by the Qing imperial court for exclusive use by the royal family. This regal textile represents the opulence and craftsmanship of the Qing dynasty.
Learn more about the Chinese brocade blue-ground dragon skirt!
From Brooklyn to California: The Story Behind the Vase
Asian Art
Stories & News
On December 20th, Clars Auctions will present an exceptionally rare Qing Yongzheng Robin’s Egg Glazed hu-form Vase at its annual Fine Asian Art Auction. This exquisite piece is not only a stunning ancient artifact but also carries a touching story that spans more than half a century.
The story of this vase is as compelling as the piece itself. According to the consignor, the vase originally belonged to his mother-in-law, who lived in Brooklyn, New York, in the 1970s. She was of Swedish immigrant descent, sent to an orphanage at the age of six after her mother’s passing, and later adopted by a kind family. As an adult, she married a man who worked for Nestlé and had two sons. After her husband’s death, she returned to Brooklyn, where she lived with her family and was beloved for her involvement in church activities, playing the piano, and teaching Sunday school.
An exceptionally fine and rare robin’s egg glazed hu-form vase, seal mark and period of Yongzheng. Photo Credit: Wyatt Beserra @ BESERRA PHOTO Sold: $630,000
A very rare Chinese Robin’s egg-glazed hu-form vase from the Yongzheng period (1723–1735), leads the Fine Asian Art Auction at Clars on December 20th.
In the 1970s, she bought the vase from a street vendor’s stall in Brooklyn for a small amount. She treasured it and often displayed it on her piano, filled with dried leaves. In 1986, she moved to California to live with her son, bringing the vase along. However, the vase was forgotten for decades, stored in a shoebox in a closet. It was only a few weeks ago that Clars Auction rediscovered the vase, unveiling a story that had been hidden for years.
The consignor expressed, “Such a beautiful and historically significant vase should not be hidden away in a closet; it deserves to be admired by many.” Now, the Qing Yongzheng Robin’s egg glazed hu-form vase is set to take center stage at the auction, capturing the attention of collectors worldwide.
Detail of vase neck.
The robin’s egg glazed hu-form vase as seen in the previous owner’s home, filled with flowers on top of a piano.
The “Lujun Glaze” porcelain, also known as Robin’s Egg glaze, originated during the Yongzheng period of the Qing Dynasty, crafted at the Jingdezhen Imperial Kiln under the supervision of Tang Ying. It was named for its resemblance to the low-temperature Jun wares of the Song Dynasty. The glaze combines techniques from both Jun ware and Yixing drip-glaze, resulting in unique flowing shades of red, blue, and purple. The surface is smooth and silky, with colors that change dynamically under natural light, evoking the beauty of nature.
As recorded in the Record of Ceramics Completion Stele, the Lujun glaze “resembles the Eastern Kiln and Yixing drip-glaze,” with distinctive fluid patterns and colors. It represents Tang Ying’s innovative fusion of traditional styles and highlights the Qing Dynasty’s dedication to ceramic artistry and aesthetic perfection. Due to its complex production process, surviving pieces are rare and mostly palace ware, making them highly valuable collectibles and a pinnacle of Qing porcelain craftsmanship.
Detail of seal mark and base of vase.
The Chinese Robin’s egg glazed hu-form vase featured by Clars has an elegant and dignified form, showcasing a flared mouth, short neck, elongated curved body, and wide splayed foot, standing at approximately 19 centimeters tall. The mouth, neck, and belly of the vase are adorned with three string patterns, which are simple yet graceful, adding a three-dimensional effect and enhancing the visual appeal of the piece. This design reflects the refined and majestic style typical of Yongzheng porcelain. The base is engraved with a two-line, four-character mark: “Yongzheng Nian Zhi,” further indicating its imperial provenance and outstanding craftsmanship.
This April 18th we will offer pair of Arne Jacobsen for Fritz Hansen Swan chairs — sculptural, iconic, and effortlessly modern.
Design
Stories & News
December Fine AsianArt Highlights
Asian Art
Auction
On December 20th, Clars will present an exceptionally rare Qing Yongzheng Robin’s Egg Glazed hu-form Vase, a contemporary masterpiece by Liu Jiutong, and a variety of other exceptional Asian artworks at its annual Fine Asian Art Auction.
The Chinese Robin’s egg glazed hu-form vase featured by Clars has an elegant and dignified form, showcasing a flared mouth, short neck, elongated curved body, and wide splayed foot, standing at approximately 19 centimeters tall. The mouth, neck, and belly of the vase are adorned with three string patterns, which are simple yet graceful, adding a three-dimensional effect and enhancing the visual appeal of the piece. This design reflects the refined and majestic style typical of Yongzheng porcelain. The base is engraved with a two-line, four-character mark: “Yongzheng Nian Zhi,” further indicating its imperial provenance and outstanding craftsmanship.
An exceptionally fine and rare robin’s egg glazed hu-form vase, seal mark and period of Yongzheng. Photo Credit: Wyatt Beserra @ BESERRA PHOTO Estimate: $50,000–$70,000
The glaze of this remarkable piece features a distinctive blend of red, blue, and purple hues, with the rare “Gaoliang Red” standing out prominently. This reddish-purple tone is a hallmark of Yongzheng Robin’s egg-glazed porcelain, extremely rare and almost entirely absent in pieces produced after the Yongzheng era. According to the Qing-era “Nan Yao Bi Ji” (Notes on Southern Kilns), “The finest Robin’s egg glaze features flowing colors with red specks, followed by blue.” Additionally, records from the Imperial Workshop Archives show that in the tenth year of the Yongzheng reign, the emperor ordered a Robin’s egg glazed vase to be paired with a zitan wood stand, illustrating that these pieces were often reserved for imperial appreciation or court display, underscoring their exceptional status. Today, similar-shaped vases of the Yongzheng Period are mostly found in museum collections, such as the Qing Yongzheng flambe glazed hu-form vase at the Palace Museum in Beijing.
The production of Robin’s Egg glazed porcelain was highly intricate, requiring precise temperature control and expert glaze mixing, resulting in a very low success rate. Well-preserved masterpieces from the Yongzheng period are exceedingly rare. The vase from Clars is in perfect condition, showcasing the natural, rustic elegance characteristic of Yongzheng-era aesthetics. In contrast to the more ornate style favored during the Qianlong period, this piece embodies the subtle and refined taste of Yongzheng, making it exceptionally valuable both artistically and historically.
Contemporary Masterpiece “Watching the Clouds Gather” by Liu Jiutong to Be Featured
Additionally, Clars will feature an oil painting by contemporary artist Liu Jiutong titled Watching the Clouds Gather. This piece vividly showcases the artist’s unique approach to abstract art, seamlessly blending Western painting materials and techniques with the essence and spirit of Eastern aesthetics, resulting in a distinct personal style. The painting combines delicate and bold brushstrokes, evoking the imagery of Su Shi’s poetry: “Dark clouds swirl like ink over the mountains; white rain leaps like pearls onto boats.” Dated in 2011, this canvas painting measures 110 cm in height and 280 cm in width, bearing Liu Jiutong’s signature in Chinese. The current collector obtained it directly from the artist prior to their relocation from Hong Kong to California.
Liu Jiutong (Chinese, b. 1977), Watching the Clouds Gather. Estimate: $30,000–$50,000
A Chinese kesi-woven ‘dragon’ cushion cover. Estimate: $2,000–$4,000
The auction will also present a variety of other exceptional Asian artworks, including a large Chinese famille rose ‘landscape’ porcelain plaque created in 1939 by renowned Republic Period ceramic artist Zhang Zhitang, a Chinese blue and white vase attributed to renowned Republic Period blue and white porcelain artist Wang Bu, a Chinese white jade landscape carving from Qing Dynasty, and a Chinese kesi-woven ‘dragon’ cushion cover.
A Chinese blue and white vase attributed to Wang Bu (1898–1968). Estimate: $3,000–$5,000
A Chinese white jade landscape carving. Estimate: $10,000–$15,000
A Chinese famille rose ‘landscape’ porcelain plaque by Zhang Zhitang (1883–1971). Estimate: $6,000–$9,000
At the same time, Clars Auctions will focus on a series of exquisite jade jewelry pieces that incorporate Asian aesthetics on December 20th. Highlight pieces include a pair of ‘A grade’ jadeite, diamond and platinum ear-clips, an ‘A grade’ jadeite and 14k gold choker necklace, an ‘A grade’ jadeite and 14k gold beaded necklace, and a Columbian emerald, seed pearl, diamond and 18k gold necklace, which skillfully integrate traditional Asian elements and craftsmanship. These precious jewelry pieces not only showcase the perfect combination of natural gemstones and outstanding craftsmanship but also reflect the unique charm of Asian art.
Clockwise: An ‘A Grade’ jadeite and 14k gold choker necklace. Estimate: $7,000–$10,000; A pair of ‘A Grade’ jadeite and platinum earrings. Estimate: $20,000–$40,000; A Colombian emerald, diamond, seed pearl and 18k gold necklace. Estimate: $3,000–$5,000
We look forward to meeting you at the Fine Asian Art Auction at Clars Auctions on December 20th!
Bidding for Clars’ December auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auctions is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609. Clars Auctions is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auctions has been the chosen auction gallery of a number of institutions and distinguished private collectors across the country, including the Richard Mellon Scaife Estate, the Thomas J. Perkins Estate and The Metropolitan Museum of Art (NYC). In the last 5 years, Clars Auctions has sold well over $500,000,000 of Fine Art, Furnishings, Jewelry, Vehicles and Collectibles and has set multiple new world auction records. Follow Clars on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Auction Inquiries:
Harry Huang: [email protected] | Wechat ID: harry_xi_huang
Shannon Liu: [email protected] | Wechat ID: Shannon_Liu575
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.
A Chinese celadon jade tripod censer and cover. Estimate: $10,000–$15,000
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.
Left: A Ming Dynasty fahua ceramic figure of a luohan. Estimate: $6,000–$9,000 Right: A Japanese inlaid bronze ‘dragon’ koro and cover. Estimate: $1,500–$2,500
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.
A Chinese enameled 100 deer hu-form vase. Estimate: $7,000–$10,000
A Chinese jade and hardstone embellished lacquer wall panel. Estimate: $4,000–$6,000
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.
A Chinese white jade teapot. Estimate: $1,500–$2,500
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.
A Chinese celadon glazed crackled ground ‘trigram’ vase. Estimate: $4,000–$6,000
Clars invites art enthusiasts and collectors this February 16th to explore these treasures and more.