Chinese Tang Dwarf Figure

Lotus charger with central dense chrysanthemum and tendril pattern, radiating panels with blossoming trees; the outer rim with three foliate branches and the base with a leaf within a concentric circle; two Chrysanthemum collection stickers to base. 1.55 kg, 38.5 cm wide



Private collection, UK.

Blue-and-white porcelains of the Kangxi period continued a centuries-old decorative tradition, but far from appearing a jaded ornamental medium, cobalt-blue in the hands of the Kangxi painter presents a radiant new face. Kangxi blue has often been described as having a sapphire hue, and in its finest examples-set off by an almost faultless white background-this pure, deep, luminous blue does have that precious stone's quality.

Comprising: Ryujin figure of the 'Dragon King of the Sea' in skirt with his court physician octopus on his head, inset nacre panel to underside of foot with signature 'Eishi Nagayuki'; bone figure carved in the round wearing a floor-length robe with hatched collar, holding open a scroll stretched across his chest; carved Ojime nut with houses in a landscape, inset metal rings to mouths of hole. 52 grams total, 19-87 mm



Acquired on the UK art market. Property of a Lancashire, UK, collector. Accompanied by a signature translation by Mieko Gray.

A hollow-form figure of a crouching male with a protruding round belly and bendy legs, mature age indicated by a deeply grooved forehead. 314 grams, 12.8 cm



Ex West Country collection, 1990s.