† A CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL BOX AND COVER IN FORM OF A RED-CROWNED CRANE, QIANLONG

拍品描述

† A CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL BOX AND COVER IN FORM OF A RED-CROWNED CRANE, QIANLONG Expert’s note The extraordinary sophistication of the present vessel lies in the complete integration of its function into the natural form of the bird. Rather than simply decorating a vessel with a crane, the craftsman has effectively made the crane itself the vessel: its folded wings form the cover, while the lingzhi held in its beak extends across the back to serve as the handle. This remarkably ingenious construction is complemented by the exceptionally fine treatment of the plumage, articulated through countless delicate cloisons. The bird is identifiable by its distinctive red crown as a red-crowned or Manchurian crane (Grus japonensis), an important emblem of longevity and immortality in Chinese art. Its association here with lingzhi, itself one of the principal symbols of longevity, reinforces this auspicious meaning. Such cranes were particularly favored in the luxurious decorative arts of the Qianlong era. China, 1736-1795. Finely modeled as a recumbent crane with its legs tucked beneath the body and its long, elegantly arched neck turned sharply backwards, the slender gilt beak grasping a lingzhi sprig. The fungus extends across the back to form the handle of the removable cover, ingeniously incorporated into the bird’s folded wings. The plumage is meticulously rendered in fine gilt and black cloisons against a luminous white enamel ground, each individual feather carefully delineated. In striking contrast, the sweeping tail feathers are picked out in brilliant cobalt blue and black enamels, their elongated, flame-like forms terminating in gilt tips. The head is surmounted by the Manchurian crane’s characteristic red crown, intricately patterned with gilt scrollwork, while further gilt details accentuate the beak, eyes, feet, and lingzhi. Dimensions: Length 10.3 cm Cranes and lingzhi are enduring symbols of longevity and transcendence in Chinese mythology and traditional visual culture. Admired for their grace and reputedly long lifespan, cranes were believed to serve as the celestial mounts of Daoist immortals, embodying wisdom, purity, and ascent to the heavenly realm. Lingzhi (Ganoderma lucidum), a medicinal fungus revered since antiquity, was associated with vitality, spiritual cultivation, and the quest for immortality. Together, they convey wishes for long life, good health, and divine blessing. Auction result comparison: Type: Near identical, likely the pair to the present lot Auction: Christie’s New York, 20 October 2004, lot 541 Price: USD 23,900 or approx. EUR 36,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing Expert remark: Compare the near identical form, decoration, and size (9.5 cm). 13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

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