172 - A GILT-BRONZE GU-SHAPED VASE

A GILT-BRONZE GU-SHAPED VASE China, Ming Dynasty, Jiajing period, H 21 cm. 1122 g. The neck is flanked by two scroll handles from which loose rings hang. It is intricately cast in relief with cranes amidst clouds, floral scrollwork, and geometric diaper patterns beneath a foliated rim incised with flowers. Provenance: - Grace Nicholson, Pasadena, California, c. 1930. - Estate of Lilla S. Perry, 1968. - Private Collection, London. This elaborate gu-shaped vessel reflects the distinct religious and aesthetic shift of the Jiajing reign (1522–1566). Devout Daoist patronage during this period led to a surge in auspicious imagery across imperial metalwork and ceramics. The vessel is richly cast in high relief with long-necked cranes (xianhe) amidst swirling clouds (xiangyun)—key Daoist symbols of longevity and immortality. What appears to be the mirror pair to this vase was sold at the Xiling Yinshe Auction in Hangzhou on December 16, 2016, lot 1611. * Full tax is charged on this item marked with an asterisk (*); that is, VAT will be charged on the total amount but refunded to purchasers who provide a validly stamped export declaration. Due to new EU import regulations, it may no longer be possible to import this item after June 28, 2025. If you intend to do so, please contact the department before bidding.