South East Asian Bronze Kohl Pot

Comprising a discoid body and cylindrical socket pierced twice for attachment (one piercing occluded); a circumferential zoomorphic frieze in high-relief to the exterior, displaying a procession of vegetal forms alternating with real and mythical creatures, each with stylised anatomical detailing: a monkey; a fenghuang; a leopard (or other feline); a tiger; set with a moonstone-quality khotain jade roundel, carved in high-relief with two sinuous fantastical beasts, swirling clouds in the field; minor restoration. 387 grams, 76 mm

Some restoration, very good condition.

Acquired from Dandelion Fine Arts, Hollywood Road, Hong Kong, 1970s. Ex Prof. David Anderson collection. UK private collection, circa 2010. Accompanied by a copy of metallurgic analytical results, written by metallurgist Dr Peter Northover (ex Department of Materials, Materials Science-Based Archaeology Group & Department of Materials, University of Oxford). Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D'Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12036-211774.

The Khotain jade was the best 'moonstone' quality used for gilded-bronzes, and came from the White Jade River, available after the signature of a military treaty in about 69BC to 101AD. This object is believed to have been produced for a notable client, likely even for a royal given the item's similarity to a finial excavated from the tomb of a Prince of Zhongshan.

Polished with bell-shaped body, everted rim and shallow foot. 122 grams, 12.4 cm



Ex Hong Kong collection, 1980s.

With rich chocolate-brown glaze, drum-shaped with carinated shoulder and broad mouth; four applied loops to the shoulder. 5.65 kg, 40 cm high



with a London, UK gallery 1971.