Capturing the Dragon’s Breath: A Collector’s Quest for Qing Dynasty Artistry at Alderfer Auction

Edited by Christian Answini | Senior Fine Art Specialist 

In the realm of Chinese porcelain, few pieces captivate the imagination quite like the early Qing dynasty Famille Verte rouleau vase set to headline Alderfer Auction's upcoming Collectors Auction – Day 2. This exceptional artifact, with its intricate depiction of a dragon and phoenix in flight, serves as a testament to the pinnacle of Chinese ceramic artistry and offers collectors a rare glimpse into the imperial tastes of the late 17th century.

The Dragon and the Phoenix: A Symphony in Green

At the heart of this auction is Lot 7033, a Famille Verte rouleau vase that stands as a masterpiece of early Qing dynasty craftsmanship. The vase's imagery is rich with symbolism, featuring a dragon and phoenix – emblems of imperial power and prosperity – soaring above a landscape engulfed in flames. This dynamic scene is not merely decorative; it's a visual poem, telling a story of cosmic balance and imperial might.What sets this piece apart is the presence of a Kangxi reign mark and the temple inscription within a lotus flower-framed scroll. For collectors and dealers alike, such details can significantly impact value and authenticity. The vase's neck, adorned with the "Hundred Antiquities" motif, further showcases the technical virtuosity of Qing artisans.Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this vase represents a pivotal moment in Chinese porcelain production. The Famille Verte palette, characterized by its vibrant green enamels, reached its zenith during the Kangxi period (1662-1722). This era saw unprecedented innovation in ceramic techniques, resulting in pieces that continue to command attention in today's market.

A Treasure Trove of Asian Artistry

#7014 • Chinese Nephrite Censer

While the Famille Verte vase may be the crown jewel, it's far from the only notable piece in this curated collection. The auction presents a diverse array of Asian art, offering both seasoned collectors and curious newcomers multiple entry points into this fascinating field.
For those drawn to the delicate beauty of jade, the sale features several exquisite examples. Lot 7014, a Qing era spinach green nephrite jade censer, showcases the material's natural beauty enhanced by skilled carving. Its fluted body and etched basketweave borders demonstrate the versatility of jade as a medium for both functional and decorative objects. Japanese art enthusiasts will find much to admire as well. A standout piece is Lot 7015, a late Meiji to Showa era Teizan Japanese Ginbari Tsuiki-Jippo and cloisonné vase. This stunning work marries multiple techniques, including the labor-intensive ginbari (silver foil under enamel method, creating a piece that bridges traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics.

#7015 • Teizan Japanese Cloisonne Tray

Navigating the Market: Insights for Collectors and Dealers

As the Asian art market continues to evolve, understanding current trends is crucial for both buyers and sellers. Here are some key points to consider:

• Provenance: Items with clear, documented histories often command premium prices. The Famille Verte vase's connection to the Kangxi period adds significantly to its value.
• Condition matters: While minor imperfections can be expected in antique pieces, items in exceptional condition, like many in this auction, are increasingly rare and desirable.
• Cross-cultural appeal: Pieces that showcase cultural exchange, such as the Japanese cloisonné vases that influenced Western Art Nouveau (Lots 7023-7026), often attract a broader collector base.

Investing in Beauty and History

For dealers looking to diversify their inventory, this auction offers an opportunity to acquire pieces across various price points and categories. From high-end masterpieces like the Famille Verte vase to more accessible entry-level items such as the Chinese snuff bottles (Lots 7046-7063), there's potential for both immediate resale and long-term investment. Retail buyers will find that many pieces in this auction serve as both stunning decorative objects and potential heirlooms. The Japanese Satsuma pottery collection (Lots 7016-7022) is particularly noteworthy, featuring an exceptional piece by the renowned artist Yabu Meizan (Lot 7018). Meizan's work, characterized by its incredibly detailed miniature painting and innovative designs, represents the pinnacle of Meiji-era Satsuma ware. His pieces are highly sought after by collectors worldwide, often fetching premium prices at auction. The presence of a Yabu Meizan plate in this sale offers buyers a rare opportunity to own a work by one of Japan's most celebrated ceramic artists. As interest in Asian art continues to grow globally, these Satsuma pieces, especially those by master craftsmen like Meizan, may well appreciate significantly in value over time, making them not just beautiful additions to a home but also wise investments in art history.

#7018 • Yabu Meizan Japanese Satsuma Pottery Plate

The upcoming Alderfer Auction not only presents a chance to own a piece of history but also to participate in the ongoing story of cultural appreciation and preservation. Whether you're a seasoned collector, a curious newcomer, or a dealer seeking to expand your offerings, this sale promises to be an event not to be missed. Editor's Note: Don't miss the opportunity to bid on the star of the show, Lot 7033, the early Qing dynasty Famille Verte rouleau vase. Other notable highlights include Lot 7014, a Qing era spinach green nephrite jade censer, and Lot 7015 a Teizan Japanese Cloisonne Tray and Lot 7016 a Ohakune Japanese Satsuma Pottery Bowl. The Collectors Auction – Day 2 is scheduled for Thursday, October 17th at 10:00 AM. For more information and to register for bidding, visit alderferauction.com.