Catalog (414)

3 embroidered silk panels. Birds and butterflies flying among bamboos are embroidered in colored silk on a yellow background. In the 1970s in Nice (south ofFrance), the saleswoman claimed to be the granddaughter of an imperial concubine who had been able to bring back only these 3 panels as a memory when she left China at the fall of the Qing. I don't think it was an invented story because in the 70s Chinese objects had little interest and their price was low, but above all, the story was told to us when the deal was concluded. Given the exceptional dimensions of these panels it is quite possible that they actually decorated the imperial apartments but with a simple concubine because although very decorative they are not of remarkable technical quality. This provenance should be verified by a specialist by consulting an inventory of the palace or photos. They are in very good condition, except for one of them which is discolored as can be seen in the photos. No restorations or tears. Each panel measures 295 cm by 125 which in total makes an exceptional set of 375cm x 295. If they were made to cover columns, these had a diameter of 40 cm. It would be necessary to check the diameter of the columns of the apartments of the concubines of the Palace. Two of them have embroidered characters which must indicate a weaving workshop.

Deity head in hammered bronze. The bronze is very thick, the ears are cast separately and welded. The hair is perfectly chiseled with a lot of elegance. The patina is verdigris and recalls that of ancient Roman bronzes. It is highly probable that this head was buried for several centuries. We were unable to locate it geographically. India, Himalayas, Afghanistan, Swat valley....? The appearance of the metal and its patina would indicate a high period of several centuries. A millennium would not be impossible. High 132mm. Had to be twisted is straightened . About ten years ago an exhibition of art from Afghanistan which took place in Italy, presented a terracotta head with an identically curly hairstyle which was announced as Afghanistan 6th century.

Sculpture in white steatite representing a mountain landscape with forests dotted with pavilions. The sculpture is of high quality, the artist has made no mistakes, the volumes are perfect, the drawings harmonious and the whole exudes a feeling of quiet calm . It is rare to find soapstone of this quality, usually sculptures in this material are technically mediocre and without artistic interest. We could think of an illustrious destination but there is no signature. Qing period, early 19th century or earlier.Probably a brush rest Some wear and scratches from use but nothing serious. Length 27cm. Photos taken in natural light.

Exceptionally large Kyoto ceramic incense burner. It is turned in a typical clay, a kind of sandstone earthenware covered with finely cracked glaze . A charming decor, animated by chinese children playing, develops over the entire surface, enamelled with colors predominantly green and blue. Gold details. On the sides, bouquets of flowers and leaves bloom elegantly. It is rare to find such harmonious sculptures on Japanese ceramics, usually they are ostentatiously excessive and vulgar. Below glazed Chinese characters certainly indicate the name of the kiln or the potter. There is also a small mark stamped in the hollow before firing. It is very complicated to fire a ceramic of this size and weight and we don't know of anything else comparable. The quality of the drawings, the reliefs, the enamelling and finally the dimensions make it an exceptional object commissioned by an important Japanese sponsor. Certainly not for export. Edo period 19th century or before. The translation of the mark should allow precise dating. There are accidents, the shishi has been reattached, as well as some petals and leaves and a foot. Otherwise good condition. Large: 50cm Hauteur: 56cm Weight about 10 kg or more. The weight, size and preciousness mean that this work will not be shipped. It will be collected in Nice south of France or I will deliver it personally if possible.

Cast bronze candlestick. Finely chiseled decoration of tao tie masks and stylized cicadas in the archaic Chinese style. The cast is perfect without the slightest defect. The carving is precise without error. The object has a very elegant atypical shape. Below a mark of 6 characters must announce the name of the artist who is necessarily excellent. Very beautiful object absolutely unique. In a perfect state. Wear of multi-secular use. Japan Edo period. Height about 25cm.

An extremely rare gilt bronze folding sundial-compass. Enamel dial, details in glass beads. The metal is finely chiselled with elegant volutes and gilded in the oven using the technique of gold-mercury amalgam. Very beautiful thick gilding that has withstood wear and tear well over the centuries. Chinese work from the qianlong period towards the end of the 18th century.This type of scientific instruments ordered by the qianlong emperor, were manufactured in the workshops of the imperial palace, inside the forbidden city.There are in the collections of the palace 2 identical instruments, but smaller, worn, incomplete, and of less good quality. The one presented here is in perfect condition and has part of its original box. Length 16,5cm.

We are delighted to present to you this remarkable pair of candlesticks in the shape of Athenian women, real jewels inspired by the drawings of the illustrious artist Jean-Charles Delafosse. These 18th century candlesticks harmoniously combine functionality and aesthetics, offering a unique experience. Each candle holder, in addition to being a magnificent candle holder, is also a refined perfume burner. The combination of these two functions makes them versatile and elegant pieces, bringing a touch of sophistication to your living space. The attention to detail on these candle holders is simply extraordinary. They are richly ornamented and decorated, not only on their surface, but also down to every nook and cranny, including the underside. This meticulous finish is testimony to the exceptional quality and attention to detail that characterized Delafosse's work. The decorative patterns on these candle holders are breathtaking. The delicate scrollwork, floral ornaments and chiseled details are all examples of Delafosse's artistic skill and his desire to create pieces of unparalleled beauty. Made with high quality materials, such as gilded bronze, these 18th century candlesticks embody the timeless elegance of the Louis XVI style. They will add a touch of distinction and grandeur to any interior, whether it is a living room, a library or an entrance hall. Don't miss this rare opportunity to acquire a pair of exceptional candlesticks, testifying to the artistic greatness of Jean-Charles Delafosse and the exceptional craftsmanship of the 18th century. These candle holders, combining functionality and aesthetics, are the symbol of unparalleled quality and exquisite taste. A true collector's item that will add a touch of history and refinement to your home or art collection. Original gilding in very good condition

Chinese Famille verte porcelain cover. Decorated with bird and flowers in predominantly green enamels. 19th century China, copying a Kanghi model. Ideally suited for a vase with an opening of 132 to 145 mm in diameter. Outside diameter 198 mm (7,8 inches) Interior dimeter 130 mm (5,1 inches)

Silk panel embroidered with colored threads and golden metallic ribbons, it seems to be gold because the metal is not oxidized. The tail of the phoenix is embroidered with dark gray metallic ribbons, certainly silver that has oxidized. A Five-Clawed Dragon surrounded by clouds and a Phoenix holding a flower in its beak, compete for the sacred pearl. At the bottom a rock is represented on which waves are breaking. This antique silk piece was mounted late, around 1900, in a mechanically woven silk frame. Good condition. Dimensions: Total: 630x225mm Old panel only: 520x100mm

18th century French engraving depicting Chinese palaces in a mountainous landscape. The scene is treated in the Chinese style and it is very likely that the draftsman was Chinese, however, the engraving is French and dates from the 18th century. Many details, beautiful print. No restaured Size about 40x60cm..

18th century French engraving depicting Chinese palaces in a mountainous landscape. The scene is treated in the Chinese style and it is very likely that the draftsman was Chinese, however, the engraving is French and dates from the 18th century. Many details, beautiful print. No restaured. Size about 40-60cm

Kozuka in sentoku inlaid with silver and gold butterflies. Length 95mm. Edo period.

Kozuka representing pumpkins and its leafs.Bronze inlaid with shakudo , silver, copper and gold. Some part gilded. No signature. About 100 x 15 mm Edo period. 19° or earlier?

Porcelain vase with splashed decoration in green, yellow and aubergine enamels.This small size reminds me of an desk object like a small vase to decorate the table of a scholar. One crack. H:78mm

Small pipe in cast bronze or brass, decorated with a very elegant incised geometric decoration, inspired by textiles. Japanese work from the 19th century or before. Very nice finish. Bamboo tube. Good condition, no restoration. Natural use wear for a century-old bronze object. Length:20.2mm

Enamelled copper snuff bottle. Decor of flying cranes in a reserve on a yellow background. The stopper is in cast bronze and chiselled with care. The prestigious mark of the emperor kien long is affixed under the base but, unfortunately, it is apocryphal. The rod and the teaspoon are made of metal. I think it's a Chinese production of the 20th century. Probably from the end. Height about 7cm. A chip on the foot (see photo) which does not harm the aesthetics of the object.

Small cast bronze tripod incense burner. Beautiful finish. The two handles are in the shape of Buddhist lions heads. Qing Chinese. The bottom of the feet slightly flared would rather suggest a Japanese Edo creation but without certainty. Dirty. Width 65mm

Netsuké carved in stag antler or deer horn,very simple but compact in shape and with a very nice patina. Very pleasant to hold in the palm of the hand. It represents a Chinese child lying on a drum. For the Chinese New Year the children drummed to cast out demons. Probably our little boy is resting on his drum after having accomplished his mission? Edo period, early 19th century or before. 40 x 27 mm There are two small holes above the ears, probably 2 missing inlays?