A PAIR OF RED-CROWNED CRANES, GILT-BRONZE AND CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL, QIANLONG PERIOD

拍品描述

A PAIR OF RED-CROWNED CRANES, GILT-BRONZE AND CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL, QIANLONG PERIOD China, 1736-1795. Each finely modeled standing on two slender legs, richly decorated in white, black, and pale blue enamels, with finely gilt copper wires delineating the dense plumage. The slender sinuous necks terminating in diminutive heads defined by pairs of tear-shaped eyes, long pointed beaks, and a raised red crests. (2) Dimensions: Height 32.7 cm (each) The crane is one of the most auspicious birds and a popular motif in Chinese religion, mythology, and literature. In the Huainanzi, a collection of essays that led to debates held in the court of Prince of Huainan in the 2nd century BCE, it is argued that the crane’s life is ‘up to 1,000 years, during which it can fly freely to its heart’s content.’ Given this impressive lifespan, cranes are also symbols of immortality and longevity, particularly red-crowned cranes, like the present lot. Cloisonné enamel cranes were often placed in pairs flanking thrones in the Imperial palaces. Auction result comparison: Type: Related Auction: Sotheby’s London, 5 November 2008, lot 356 Price: GBP 6,250 approx. EUR 12,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing Expert remark: Compare the related subject, modeling, and decoration. Note the later date. Auction result comparison: Type: Related Auction: Christie’s London, 14 May 2010, lot 701 Price: GBP 5,625 or approx. EUR 10,500 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing Expert remark: Compare the related subject, modeling, and decoration. Note the size (40 cm) and the later date.

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