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Lot 83
A SELECTION OF SMOKING EQUIPMENT, to include a cased Meerschaum pipe, the bowl gripped by a clawed birds foot fitted to a silver mount hallmarked Birmingham 1905, with a broken cheroot, a carved ivory cheroot in the form of a dragon, two cased silver mounted cheroots, a cased wooden and silver mounted pipe, a cased clay and silver mounted pipe, together with a quantity of clay and ceramic pipes, etc
Lot 593
TWO BOXES AND LOOSE ASSORTED ITEMS to include ceramic British fresh water fish quartz clock, Kundo anniversary clock with key, Chinese 'Sputnik' clock, Orient Line to Australia circular playing cards, Chasseur casserole dish, salt glazed stoneware flagons, oak pipe rack, Kodascope Eight cine projector, slide projector, etc
Lot 109
Random Cube 2020 by Suffolk Potter Jonathan Keep ‘With an interest in how computer code can be used to explore and understand natural codes and systems, my forms are generated with simple algorithms in code. This digital information is passed to a studio-based self-built 3D printer that is designed to print in clay. Layer by layer the pots are printed out, in a sort of mechanical pottery coil building. After printing, the ceramic is fired and glazed in the traditional way. The artistic aim is to reflect humanity’s relation to the natural world.’ Jonathan Keep Stoneware clay and glaze 14 x 15 x 16 cm Donated by: Jonathan Keep http://www.keep-art.co.uk/
Lot 367
Assorted spirits to include: Old Rarity, De Luxe Scotch Whisky, 1970s bottling, 70 proof, 75.7cl, one bottle; Glenside, Scotch Whisky, 40% vol, 70cl, one bottle; 100 Pipers, De Luxe Scotch Whisky, 40% vol, 75cl, one bottle; Grant's, Family Reserve, Finest Scotch Whisky, with tumbler, 40% vol, 70cl, one bottle; Glenfiddich, Special Reserve, Single Malt Scotch Whisky, 40% vol, 75cl, one bottle (boxed); Dimple, Old Blended Scotch Whisky, 43% vol, 75cl, one bottle (boxed); Bell's, Blended Scotch Whisky, 40% vol, 75cl, one ceramic decanter; Bell's, Old Scotch Whisky, 40% vol,1.5L, one bottle; Grand Marnier, one bottle and De Kuyper Cherry Brandy one 50 cl. bottle, ten bottles of varying sizes in total
Lot 381
Assorted Whisky to include: Lamb's Navy Rum, in a ceramic flagon depicting HMS Warrior, 40% volume, 750ml, one flagon; Old Pulteney, Aged 12 Years, Single Malt Scotch Whisky, 40% volume, 70cl, one bottle; Penderyn, Single Malt Welsh Whisky, 46% volume, 70cl, one bottle; House of Lords, Aged 12 Years, Deluxe Blended Scotch Whisky, 40% volume, 70cl, one bottle; House of Lords, Deluxe Blended Scotch Whisky, 40% volume, 70cl, one bottle and Clontarf, Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 40% volume, 200ml, one bottle atop Clontarf, Irish Whiskey, 40% volume, 200ml, one bottle, six bottles and two 200 ml. bottles in total
Lot 1
C. 386-534 AD. Northern Wei Dynasty. A painted pottery figure of a caparisoned horse. The horse stands foursquare with its head drawn inwards, and its tail lowered. Its pelt is picked out in a beautiful deep red, reminiscent of the tones traditionally associated with wealth in Chinese society, while its mane is reserved the light tan colour The creature is decked out with a carefully-modelled strap-and-boss bridle, a prominent breastgirth ornamented with bells, and a long, tasselled saddle. The horse is the seventh of the twelve animals in a zodiac cycle and represents strength, energy and an outgoing nature. Indeed, some peoples including Mongolians and Manchurians, revere and worship the horse and its power. Ceramic figures such as this item would often have ritual functions, reflecting beliefs in the ability of the horse to provide assistance, luck and companionship. The Northern Wei dynasty ruled northern China from c. 386 to 534 AD, and its most famous achievement was unifying a large empire following a long period social and political turbulence. However, craftsmen working under this dynasty were also responsible for beautiful works of art, as this object exemplifies. Excellent condition. Comes fully authenticated with a TL test from Ralf Kotalla laboratory, Germany. A comparable example was recently sold at Christie’s for £29,375 , see https://www.christies.com/lotfinder/lot/a-painted-grey-pottery-figure-of-a-1791461-details.aspx?from=searchresults&intObjectID=1791461 Size: L:380mm / W:330mm ; 3.1kg .Provenance: Private collection of an Oxford professional, formed in the 1970s-1990s on the UK art market.
Lot 100
C. 3rd millennium BC. A beautiful buff-coloured handmade fertility idol of characteristically abstract form with wide hips, carefully delineated legs, curved arms, voluptuous breasts situated beneath an incised pectoral collar arranged over her broad shoulders. The highly stylized face presents with impressed circular eyes, a narrow nose, slender lips, and tall forehead topped with a neatly arranged coiffure. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which this ceramic vessel belongs, was in the 3rd millennium BC. These fertility figures are common in the Indus Valley, and likely represent offerings to a deity in exchange for fertility and a healthy pregnancy. Excellent condition; on a custom-made stand.Size: L:132mm / W:40mm ; 50g. Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
Lot 101
C. 3rd millennium BC. A beautiful buff-coloured handmade fertility idol of characteristically abstract form with wide hips, carefully delineated legs, curved arms, voluptuous breasts situated beneath an incised pectoral collar arranged over her broad shoulders. The highly stylized face presents with impressed circular eyes, a narrow nose, slender lips, and tall forehead topped with a neatly arranged coiffure. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which this ceramic vessel belongs, was in the 3rd millennium BC. These fertility figures are common in the Indus Valley, and likely represent offerings to a deity in exchange for fertility and a healthy pregnancy. Excellent condition; on a custom-made stand. Size: L:130mm / W:37mm ; 50g. Provenance: From an old British collection formed in the 1990s.
Lot 102
C. 2nd millennium BC. Ancient Central Asia, Indus Valley. 2nd millennium BC. A pair of ceramic zebus. These zebu figurines feature exaggerated crescent horns, and each has a large crest at the shoulders. One is fawn coloured and painted with stripes on the horns, back and rump, dotted shoulders, and a dark ring around the neck. The second is ochre coloured and is decorated with diagonally orientated stripes applied at random intervals. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which this ceramic vessel belongs, was in the 3rd millennium BC. The bull, with its hump and powerful horns, is a recurring motif in the Indus Valley, appearing on painted pottery like this example but also on figurines and stamps. The animal may represent the leader of a herd, who is able to protect his followers, or it could be a reflection of the bull’s importance in religious sacrifice. Excellent condition. Size: L:set of2:55mm(smallest),75mm(largest)mm / W:70mm,100mm ; 140g. Provenance: Important London collection of Ancient art; formed in 1970s then passed by descent.
Lot 105
Ca. 1368-1644 AD. Chinese Ming Dynasty Ceramic Figures. A beautifully crafted pair of multi-coloured glazed terracotta ceramic roosters. The tail feathers of two roosters are carefully detailed and coloured in an alternating pattern of green and yellow. The primary feathers of the wings are likewise yellow and green coloured, whilst the more delicate neck, chest and wing feathers are picked out in black. The legs and leg feathers are green, whilst the Rooster’s combs, beaks, eyes and nostrils are highlighted with red and black pigment. The rooster is the tenth of the twelve animals in a zodiac cycle and is represents fidelity, protection from evil spirits and punctuality for its role in announcing the dawn. Excellent condition.Size: L:set of two: 120mm both/ W:125mm both ; 435g. Provenance: Important estate collection from Oxfordshire; formed in the 1970s-2000.
Lot 108
C. 1300 AD or later. Islamic medieval. Glazed ceramic diorama with a beautiful turquoise glaze typical of medieval Islamic ceramics. The item comprises rectangular base supporting a pen which contains a large array of stylised quadrupedal animals, probably oxen. This exceptional object would make a gorgeous statement piece within the context of a modern collection. Medieval Islamic ceramics developed as a distinctive tradition of decoration in Muslim lands several centuries after the original Arab conquests. From the 9th century onwards, distinctive Islamic ceramic styles, often involving glazed and/or incised decoration developed and spread across the Islamic world and beyond; Islamic ceramics also had an important influence on pottery production in Italy and in the Byzantine Empire. Good condition. Size: L:90mm / W:230mm ; 1.7kg. Provenance: From the important collection of a London doctor A.R; passed by descent to his son; formerly acquired before 2000 on the UK art market.
Lot 109
Ca. 1368-1644 AD. Chinese Ming Dynasty Warrior Figure. An elaborately crafted warrior attendant figure dressed in armour picked out in light and dark blue, a tall conical helmet with a light coloured tassel, possibly meant to imitate horse hair, and sturdy boots. The warrior holds a turquoise coloured bow in one hand. During the Ming Dynasty the Chinese art industry flourished and the production of ceramic and porcelain pieces increased exponentially. Figures of this type were particularly popular during the Ming artistic revival which placed great importance on depicting aspects of Chinese political and social life including warriors, servants and ladies of high status. Size: L:235mm / W:90mm ; 530g. Provenance: Property of an Oxfordshire art professional; previously in an old British collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK / International art markets.
Lot 111
Ca. 1368-1644 AD. Chinese Ming Dynasty. Ceramic horse and groom figurine. This figurine shows a groom, dressed in a dark blue tunic, with light blue trim a light blue belt and light blue trousers, standing by a horse with one arm extended as if to hold the reins whilst the other hand rests at his side. The horse stands still, with a gently arched neck, and his tail flicking over his hindquarter, as though swatting flies. The horse's equipment is modelled in medium relief with the sadle and bridle painted light blue, whilst the rest of the equipment is coloured shades of dark blue and red. Horses were an important status symbol in ancient China. These animals were brought to China via the Silk Road and were considered a luxury good. As such horses were a sign of wealth among the elite, and there were strict laws which restricted the ownership of horses to people of elevated rank. In fact, soldiers serving in China’s military had to provide their own mounts indicating that only the richest members of society could serve in the cavalry. This exceptionally well-preserved terracotta is part of a long tradition of horse statuettes in China, and in fact, the earliest known example of a stirrup, today a mainstay of equestrianism, was found on another Chinese statue of a horse from Hunan province, dated to AD 302 (see Cartier, M. 1993.‘Considérations sur l'histoire du harnachement et de l'équitation en Chine.’ Anthropozoologica, 18, 29-44). Excellent condition.Size: L:160mm / W:190mm ; 755g. Provenance: Important estate collection from Oxfordshire; formed in the 1970s-2000.
Lot 113
Ca. 1368-1644 AD. Chinese Ming Dynasty Warrior Figure. An elaborately crafted warrior attendant figure dressed and orange and green armour, with a tall conical helmet with a light coloured tassel, possibly meant to imitate horsehair. The warrior holds an intricately detailed shield in the form of a dragon’s head. During the Ming Dynasty the Chinese art industry flourished and the production of ceramic and porcelain pieces increased exponentially. Figures of this type were particularly popular during the Ming artistic revival which placed great importance on depicting aspects of Chinese political and social life including warriors, servants and ladies of high status.Size: L:222mm / W:80mm ; 550g. Provenance: Important estate collection from Oxfordshire; formed in the 1970s-2000.
Lot 114
Ca. 1368-1644 AD. Ming Dynasty. Ceramic court lady. This female figure is presented wearing court attire, or shenyi, which comprises a long vest, tied to the waist and long, flaring sleeves. Her robeis dark blue with light blue accents for the sleeves and waist tie, while her hair is accented in black and tied with a red ribbon. Court ladies, otherwise known as nüguan ?? were present in the imperial palaces of all dynasties. Some served as consorts and concubines, but most filled roles related to management of the imperial palace’s private quarters. After serving in the palace for five or six years the court ladies were allowed to return to their parents and await marriage Service as a court lady raised conveyed high status to these women and increased their marriage prospects. Good condition. Size: L:240mm / W:90mm ; 425g. Provenance: Private London collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK and European art market.
Lot 118
Ca. 700 AD. Tang Dynasty. Pair terracotta court ladies with fans. This pair of ceramic court ladies are presented wearing flowing dresses in light colours, one in a light coral, and one in a light mint green. Eash has a sash which are also pigmented in tones of orange and green. The ladies are both posed with one hand at the wast holding a closed fan and the other near the head holding an open fan. Both ladies have finely detailed faces showing red painted lips, a small nose, bright eyes and delicately arched eyebrows with their hair done up, though one has her hair covered in a reddish-orange cap Court ladies, otherwise known as nüguan ?? were present in the imperial palaces of all dynasties. Some served as consorts and concubines, but filled roles related to management of the imperial palace’s private quarters. Service as a court lady raised the status of a lady in regards to marriage prospects. Excellent Condition.Size: L:250mm / W:125mm ; 540g. Provenance: From an old British collection, acquired on the UK art market in the 1980s.
Lot 120
Ca. 206 BC - 220 AD. Han dynasty. A terracotta head of a warrior painted with pale skin, full red lips, and a his dark hair pulled back and held with a ribbon in the traditional style. The Han dynasty is famous for its highly organized ceramic production. Figures of this type were popular during the Han Dynasty and were used to advertise the status of the owner by depicting aspects of elite Chinese political and social life including warriors, servants and ladies of high status. Good condition. Size: L:260mm / W:130mm ; 2.2kg. Provenance: Important London collection of Ancient art; formed in 1970s then passed by descent.
Lot 121
Ca. 206 BC - 220 AD. Han dynasty. A terracotta head of a warrior painted with ruddy skin, a broad nose, and a dark hair arranged in a traditional style with a red head band. The Han dynasty is famous for its highly organized ceramic production. Figures of this type were popular during the Han Dynasty and were used to advertise the status of the owner by depicting aspects of elite Chinese political and social life including warriors, servants and ladies of high status. Good condition. Size: L:110mm / W:65mm ; 310g. Provenance: Important London collection of Ancient art; formed in 1970s then passed by descent.
Lot 125
C. 3rd millennium BC. Indus Valley Civilisation. Terracotta-coloured vessel with a hemispherical body and a flattened ring base. The interior of the pot is painted with three fish outlined in black, each chasing the tail of the creature in front. They are framed by geometric bands and the central rondel of the bowl is filled with an elaborate geometric composition. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which this ceramic vessel belongs, was in the 3rd millennium BC. Cf. N. Satyawadi, 1994. Proto-Historic Pottery of the Indus Valley Civilisation: Study of Painted Motifs, New Delhi. Excellent condition. Size: L:100mm / W:270mm ; 985g. Provenance: From the private collection of a South London art professional; previously in a collection formed on the UK/European art market in the 1990s.
Lot 127
C. 3rd millennium BC. Indus Valley Civilisation. Terracotta-coloured vessel with a flattened globular body. The exterior features painted decoration depicting a sitting lion on one side and a zebu bull with characteristic hump and curving horns on the other. They are separated by stylised geometric vegetation and framed by a simple upper and lower linear border. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which this ceramic vessel belongs, was in the 3rd millennium BC. The bull, with its hump and powerful horns, is a recurring motif in the Indus Valley, appearing on painted pottery like this example but also on figurines and stamps. The animal may represent the leader of a herd, who is able to protect his followers, or it could be a reflection of the bull’s importance in religious sacrifice. Cf. N. Satyawadi, 1994. Proto-Historic Pottery of the Indus Valley Civilisation: Study of Painted Motifs, New Delhi. Excellent condition. Size: L:100mm / W:170mm ; 805g. Provenance: From an old British collection, acquired on the UK art market in the 1990s.
Lot 128
C. 3rd millennium BC. Indus Valley Civilisation. Terracotta-coloured vessel with a straight neck, globular body and flattened base. The exterior features a painted black geometric neck design framed by alternating black and red bands. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which this ceramic vessel belongs, was in the 3rd millennium BC. Cf. N. Satyawadi, 1994. Proto-Historic Pottery of the Indus Valley Civilisation: Study of Painted Motifs, New Delhi. Excellent condition.Size: L:87mm / W:120mm ; 255g. Provenance: From an old British collection, acquired on the UK art market in the 1980s.
Lot 129
C. 3rd millennium BC. Indus Valley Civilisation. A group of six pots in a range of terracotta fabrics, two of which are on custom-made stands. (From left to right): globular jar with out-turned rim; deep hemispherical bowl with pronounced foot and black and yellow painted linear decoration; deep conical bowl with repeating ibex motif; piriform jar with flaring rim and high foot; carinated bowl with animal scenes and geometric motifs; carinated jar with squat neck and flat base. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which these ceramic vessels belong, was in the 3rd millennium BC. Cf. N. Satyawadi, 1994. Proto-Historic Pottery of the Indus Valley Civilisation: Study of Painted Motifs, New Delhi. Good condition. Size: L:set of 6:60mm(smallest), 83mm(largest)mm / W:60mm(smallest),80mm(largest)mm ; 455g. Provenance: Private London collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK and European art market.
Lot 157
Ca. 206 BC - 220 AD. Han dynasty. A ceramic dragon's head taking a rondel form, with high relief modelling of the brow ridge, eyelids, nose, maw, and chin. This dragon is shown with a red-rimmed eyes, large black pupils and teeth bared in a snarl. Dragons are a symbol of power, strength and good fortune in Chinese art. The Han dynasty was the second imperial dynasty of China lasting from 202 BC - 220 AD and is characterised as an age of economic prosperity which witnessed a significant growth of economy. This dragon may have belonged to a well-to-do noble who benefitted from the growing economy and chose to patronize the arts. Good condition. Size: L:350mm / W:310mm ; 2.6kg Provenance: Important estate collection from Oxfordshire; formed in the 1970s-2000.
Lot 159
C. AD 618 and 907. Tang Dynasty. A beautiful ceramic head of Lokapala with protruding wing-form ears, elongated lower tusks curling out of the mouth, a prominent protrusion of hair meant to mimic a horn, fierce wide eyes with the pupils blown wide, and red lips. A Lokapala is a guardian spirit found in both Hinduism and Buddhism, serving slightly different functions in each religion. In Hinduism a Lokapala is a guardian of the cardinal directions, whilst in Buddhism a Lokapala refers more broadly to a protector spirit. This item would surely have been intended to bring it's owner luck and protection from evil in all its forms. Good condition. Size: L:212mm / W:215mm ; 2.2kg Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
Lot 160
Ca. 206 BC - 220 AD. Han dynasty. A terracotta head of an attendant with pale painted skin, thin arching brows painted black, a delicate nose, small pursed red lips and an elaborate woven hairstyle. The Han dynasty is famous for its highly organized ceramic production. Figures of this type were popular during the Han Dynasty and were used to advertise the status of the owner by depicting aspects of elite Chinese political and social life including warriors, servants and ladies of high status. Good condition. Size: L:95mm / W:95mm ; 330g Provenance: From an old British collection, acquired on the UK art market in the 1990s.
Lot 166
Ca. 1368-1644 AD. Chinese Ming Dynasty. A ceramic Lohan figure depicted seated wearing bright red robes with green and black trim, and a headpiece. The figure is posed in a relaxed position with one hand tucked under his belt, and the other resting on his knee. A Lohan is someone who has followed the Eightfold Path and has earned deliverance from their earthly existence and is saved for all eternity. Today, sculptures of Lohans still adorn the budhhist temples of China, usually in sets of 16 or 18.Good condition. Size: L:172mm / W:90mm ; 550g Provenance: From the private collection of an Oxford gentleman; previously in an old British collection, formed in the 1990s on the UK / International art markets.
Lot 170
Ca. 1368-1644 AD. Chinese Ming Dynasty Warrior Figure. An elaborately crafted warrior attendant figure dressed in armour picked out in light and dark blue, a tall conical helmet with a light coloured tassel, possibly meant to imitate horse hair, and sturdy boots. The warrior holds a turquoise coloured sword in one hand. During the Ming Dynasty the Chinese art industry flourished and the production of ceramic and porcelain pieces increased exponentially. Figures of this type were particularly popular during the Ming artistic revival which placed great importance on depicting aspects of Chinese political and social life including warriors, servants and ladies of high status.Size: L:233mm / W:90mm ; 510g Provenance: Private collection of an Oxford professional, formed in the 1970s-1990s on the UK art market.
Lot 172
Ca. 1368-1644 AD. Ming Dynasty. Ceramic Horse with Rider. An elegant ceramic figurine depicting a grey horse in a standing pose with its neck strethcing forward and its tail loose, over one hind quarter. The horse’s trappings, including the bridle and breastplate, saddle blanket, and breeching are molded in the round and coloured in dark and light blue. The rider is shown dressed in period-typical garb with the tunic painted blue with cream accents and wearing a brimmed conical hat. The rider’s pose, with arms extended to hold the reins, back straight in a skilled riding posture. Horses were an important status symbol in ancient China. These animals were brought to China via the Silk Road and were considered a luxury good. As such horses were a sign of wealth among the elite, and there were strict laws which restricted the ownership of horses to people of elevated rank. In fact, soldiers serving in China’s military had to provide their own mounts indicating that only the richest members of society could serve in the cavalry. This exceptionally well-preserved terracotta is part of a long tradition of horse statuettes in China, and in fact, the earliest known example of a stirrup, today a mainstay of equestrianism, was found on another Chinese statue of a horse from Hunan province, dated to AD 302 (see Cartier, M. 1993. ‘Considérations sur l'histoire du harnachement et de l'équitation en Chine.’ Anthropozoologica, 18, 29-44). Excellent condition. Size: L:265mm / W:210mm ; 1.3kg Provenance: Private London collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK and European art market.
Lot 173
Ca. 1368-1644 AD. Chinese Ming Dynasty Warrior Figure. An elaborately crafted warrior attendant figure dressed in armour picked out in light and dark blue, a tall conical helmet with a light coloured tassel, possibly meant to imitate horse hair, and sturdy boots. The warrior holds a turquoise coloured sword in one hand. During the Ming Dynasty the Chinese art industry flourished and the production of ceramic and porcelain pieces increased exponentially. Figures of this type were particularly popular during the Ming artistic revival which placed great importance on depicting aspects of Chinese political and social life including warriors, servants and ladies of high status.Size: L:235mm / W:90mm ; 520g Provenance: From the private collection of a Cambridgeshire gentleman; previously in an old British collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK /European art markets.
Lot 174
Ca. 1368-1644 AD. Ming Dynasty. Ceramic court lady. This female figure is presented wearing court attire, or shenyi, which comprises a long vest, tied to the waist and long, flaring sleeves. Her robeis dark green with yellow accents for the sleeves, she also wears a dark over-vest. Her hair is accented in black and tied with a red ribbon. One hand rests on her hip, while she holds on object, possibly a jar in front of her chest with the other. Court ladies, otherwise known as nüguan ?? were present in the imperial palaces of all dynasties. Some served as consorts and concubines, but most filled roles related to management of the imperial palace’s private quarters. After serving in the palace for five or six years the court ladies were allowed to return to their parents and await marriage Service as a court lady raised conveyed high status to these women and increased their marriage prospects. Good condition. Size: L:235mm / W:90mm ; 440g Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1970s.
Lot 176
Ca. 202 BC-220 AD. Chinese Han Dynasty. Ceramic Horse with Rider. An elegant ceramic figurine depicting a grey horse in a standing pose with its neck strethcing forward and its tail loose, over one hind quarter. The horse’s trappings, including the bridle and breastplate, saddle blanket, and breeching are molded in the round and coloured in dark and light blue. The female rider is shown dressed in period-typical garb with the tunic painted blue with cream accents and hair in an updo bound with a ribbon. The rider’s pose, with arms at the wast as if to hold the reins, back straight in a skilled riding posture. Horses were an important status symbol in ancient China. These animals were brought to China via the Silk Road and were considered a luxury good. As such horses were a sign of wealth among the elite, and there were strict laws which restricted the ownership of horses to people of elevated rank. In fact, soldiers serving in China’s military had to provide their own mounts indicating that only the richest members of society could serve in the cavalry. This exceptionally well-preserved terracotta is part of a long tradition of horse statuettes in China, and in fact, the earliest known example of a stirrup, today a mainstay of equestrianism, was found on another Chinese statue of a horse from Hunan province, dated to AD 302 (see Cartier, M. 1993. ‘Considérations sur l'histoire du harnachement et de l'équitation en Chine.’ Anthropozoologica, 18, 29-44). Excellent condition. Size: L:260mm / W:200mm ; 1.3kg Provenance: Private London collection, formed since the 1970s on the UK and European art market.
Lot 177
Ca. 1368-1644 AD. Chinese Ming Dynasty Pair of Ceramic Figure. A beautifully crafted pair of green glazed terracotta pigs. The pigs are depicted standing, with their tail curled over their hips. The facial details including the eyes, nostrils, and mouths are carefully modelled. The pig is the twelfth of the twelve animals in a zodiac cycle and represents diligence, compassion, and realism. Excellent condition. Size: L:set of 2: 95mmmm / W:125mm ; 740g Provenance: Private London collection, formed since the 1970s on the UK and European art market.
Lot 178
Ca. 1368-1644 AD. Chinese Ming Dynasty Ceramic Figures. A beautifully crafted pair of multi-coloured glazed terracotta ceramic roosters. The tail feathers of two roosters are carefully detailed and coloured in an alternating pattern of green and yellow. The primary feathers of the wings are likewise yellow and green coloured, whilst the more delicate neck, chest and wing feathers are picked out in black. The legs and leg feathers are green, whilst the Rooster’s combs, beaks, eyes and nostrils are highlighted with red and black pigment. The rooster is the tenth of the twelve animals in a zodiac cycle and is represents fidelity, protection from evil spirits and punctuality for its role in announcing the dawn. Excellent condition. Size: L:set of 2: 123mm / W:125mm ; 485g Provenance: Private London collection, formed since the 1970s on the UK and European art market.
Lot 179
Ca. 1368-1644 AD. Chinese Ming Dynasty Ceramic Figures. Two beautifully crafted ochre-coloured glazed terracotta horses. The horses are depicted standing with their necks stretching gently forward, and wearing halters or headcollars which are glazed a greenish-black. The horses’ manes, tails and hooves are also coloured the same greenish-black. The facial details including the eyes, nostrils, and mouths which are is slightly agape are carefully modelled. The horse is the seventh of the twelve animals in a zodiac cycle and represents strength, energy and an outgoing nature. Indeed, some peoples including Mongolians and Manchurians, revere and worship the horse and its power. Excellent condition. Size: L:set of 2: 130mm / W:140mm ; 595g Provenance: Private London collection, formed since the 1970s on the UK and European art market.
Lot 180
C. 3rd millennium BC. Indus Valley Civilisation. Cream-coloured pottery zebu bull figurine with painted black details. The bull features curved horns and humped shoulders characteristic of the Zebu, elongated bodies and short, squat legs. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which this ceramic vessel belongs, was in the 3rd millennium BC. The bull is a recurring motif in Indus Valley art, appearing in figurines like these but also on ceramic vessels. The animal may represent the leader of a herd, who is able to protect his followers, or it could be a reflection of the bull’s importance in religious sacrifice. Excellent condition. Size: L:90mm / W:115mm ; 200g Provenance: Private London collection, formed since the 1970s on the UK and European art market.
Lot 181
C. 3rd millennium BC. A yellowish-brown coloured handmade fertility idol of characteristically abstract form with wide hips, carefully delineated legs, curved arms, broad shoulders and voluptuous breasts situated beneath an incised pectoral collar. The highly stylized face presents with impressed circular eyes, a narrow nose, slender lips, and tall forehead topped with a neatly arranged coiffure. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which this ceramic vessel belongs, was in the 3rd millennium BC. These fertility figures are common in the Indus Valley, and likely represent offerings to a deity in exchange for fertility and a healthy pregnancy. Excellent condition; on a custom-made stand. Size: L:120mm / W:35mm ; 40g Provenance: Private London collection, formed since the 1970s on the UK and European art market.
Lot 182
C. 3rd millennium BC. A beautiful dark cream-coloured handmade fertility idol of characteristically abstract form with wide hips, prominent pudenda, carefully delineated legs, curved arms and pinprick breasts. The highly stylized face presents with impressed circular eyes, a narrow nose, slender lips, and tall forehead topped with an intricate headdress. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which this ceramic vessel belongs, was in the 3rd millennium BC. These fertility figures are common in the Indus Valley, and likely represent offerings to a deity in exchange for fertility and a healthy pregnancy. Excellent condition; on a custom-made stand. Size: L:122mm / W:37mm ; 45g Provenance: Private London collection, formed in the 1980-90s on the UK and European art market.
Lot 183
C. 3rd millennium BC. Indus Valley Civilisation. Pair of brown pottery bull figurines with painted black details. The bulls feature curved horns and humped shoulders characteristic of the Indian cattle, elongated bodies and short, squat legs. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which this ceramic vessel belongs, was in the 3rd millennium BC. The bull is a recurring motif in Indus Valley art, appearing in figurines like these but also on ceramic vessels. The animal may represent the leader of a herd, who is able to protect his followers, or it could be a reflection of the bull’s importance in religious sacrifice. Good condition. Size: L:set of 2: 50mm(smallest),70mm(largest)mm / W:87mm(smallest),92mm(largest)mm ; 150g Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
Lot 184
C. 3rd millennium BC. Indus Valley Civilisation. Buff-coloured pottery vessel with red, green and yellow painted decoration depicting a walking bull on one side and a cow on the other. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which this ceramic vessel belongs, was in the 3rd millennium BC. Cf. N. Satyawadi, 1994. Proto-Historic Pottery of the Indus Valley Civilisation: Study of Painted Motifs, New Delhi. Excellent condition. Size: L:142mm / W:135mm ; 490g Provenance: From an old British collection of Asian Art formed in the 1990 on the UK and European art market.
Lot 185
C. 3rd millennium BC. Indus Valley Civilisation. Cream-coloured vessel with a curving shoulder, and carinated body. The exterior features painted decoration in black, red and green depicting a sitting lion on one side and a zebu bull with characteristic hump and curving horns on the other. They are separated by stylised geometric vegetation and framed by a simple upper and lower linear border. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which this ceramic vessel belongs, was in the 3rd millennium BC. The bull, with its hump and powerful horns, is a recurring motif in the Indus Valley, appearing on painted pottery like this example but also on figurines and stamps. The animal may represent the leader of a herd, who is able to protect his followers, or it could be a reflection of the bull’s importance in religious sacrifice. Cf. N. Satyawadi, 1994. Proto-Historic Pottery of the Indus Valley Civilisation: Study of Painted Motifs, New Delhi. Excellent condition.Size: L:83mm / W:143mm ; 385g Provenance: From an old British collection of Asian Art formed in the 1990 on the UK and European art market.
Lot 186
C. 3rd millennium BC. Indus Valley Civilisation. Cream-coloured vessel with a short, straight neck, flattened shoulder and cylindrical body. The shoulder displays a repeating painted motif of three black fish, while the body features painted decoration in black, red and green depicting a walking lion on one side and a zebu bull with characteristic hump and curving horns on the other. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which this ceramic vessel belongs, was in the 3rd millennium BC. Cf. N. Satyawadi, 1994. Proto-Historic Pottery of the Indus Valley Civilisation: Study of Painted Motifs, New Delhi. Excellent condition. Size: L:84mm / W:170mm ; 715g Provenance: From an old British collection of Asian Art formed in the 1990 on the UK and European art market.
Lot 187
C. 3rd millennium BC. Indus Valley Civilisation. Cream-coloured vessel with a short, straight neck, carinated body and flattened base. The exterior features painted designs in black, red and green depicting a sitting lion, a grazing antelope and a bird pecking the earth. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which this ceramic vessel belongs, was in the 3rd millennium BC. Cf. N. Satyawadi, 1994. Proto-Historic Pottery of the Indus Valley Civilisation: Study of Painted Motifs, New Delhi. Excellent condition.Size: L:110mm / W:145mm ; 490g Provenance: From an old British collection of Asian Art formed in the 1990 on the UK and European art market.
Lot 188
C. 3rd millennium BC. Indus Valley Civilisation. A group of six vessels in a variety of terracotta and cream-coloured fabrics. (Front:) piriform jar with high foot; (Back, from left to right): globular jar with high foot and constricted neck; piriform jar featuring flaring neck, high foot and black painted lion motif; hemispherical bowl with high foot and black painted serpent design; conical bowl with repeating antelope motif; truncated conical bowl with flaring rim. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which these ceramic vessels belong, was in the 3rd millennium BC. Cf. N. Satyawadi, 1994. Proto-Historic Pottery of the Indus Valley Civilisation: Study of Painted Motifs, New Delhi. Good condition. Size: L:set of 6: 30mm(smallest), 92mm(largest)mm / W:45mm(smallest), 100(largest)mm ; 555g Provenance: From an old British collection formed in the 1990s.
Lot 200
c. 1271-1368 AD. Yuan Dynasty. Celadon bowl with ring foot, wide hemispherical bowl, and a simple rim, rounded rim which is ornamented with a continuous undulating line of decoration on the exterior. The fabric, visible on the underside, is a reddish orange and the vessel is extensively covered in a light greenish-grey glaze. Celadon ware is a type of ceramics with a soft greenish-grey glaze, achieved through the addition of an iron-rich liquefied clay slip to the ceramic before firing. When fired, the iron oxidises to create a lustrous green coating. Although celadon ware was first invented hundreds of years earlier, it thrived under the Yuan Dynasty, who ruled much of China between the 13th and 14th centuries. Good condition.Size: L:75mm / W:135mm ; 305g Provenance: From an old British collection formed in the 1990s; previously acquired in Holland.
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