REVERENCE AND PERFECTION:

THE BEAUTY OF IMPERIAL CLOISONNÉ ENAMELS

 CHRISTIE’S HONG KONG PRESENTS

18^TH-CENTURY CLOISONNÉ ENAMELS FROM

A PRIVATE EUROPEAN COLLECTION 

HONG KONG – On May 29, 2013, Christie’s Hong Kong will present “Reverence and Perfection – Magnificent Imperial Cloisonné Enamels from a Private European Collection”, as part of its spring sales of Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art. Comprising 26 pieces and estimated to realize in excess of HK$41 million (US$5.3 million), this group of works is diverse in size and shape. The sale features representative examples of Imperial cloisonné enamel wares made during the 18th century, the most prolific era of cloisonné production in China.

A considerable number of pieces from this sale are large-sized vessels including censers, vases and a fish basin, many of which bear Qianlong reign marks. Not only are they of intrinsic historical and aesthetic value, but also ideal decorative objects to be placed in contemporary homes. The collection also includes a group of small and delicate scholar’s objects including brush rests, incense burners and miniature vases, which will likely interest those with a taste for refined details.

The pieces in this collection were carefully chosen by a private European collector and mainly acquired from prominent dealers in the field or at world-class auction houses. With a focus on works with fine craftsmanship, the collector has succeeded in forming a comprehensive collection of Qing cloisonné enamels that well exhibits his discerning and keen eye as well as expert knowledge.

Cloisonné is a complex ancient technique of decorating metal vessels, cast from either copper or bronze, with paste enamels applied within copper wire enclosures. Cloisonné enamels were largely used at the Imperial court during the 18^th century. Boasting an air of grandeur and elegance, they possess a timeless appeal and can be placed in a variety of home interiors. From the 18^th century onwards, collecting Chinese cloisonné enamels became in vogue among Europeans since the incorporation of Chinese works of art into European homes was considered a symbol of fine taste and style. Cloisonné enamels produced in the Qing Dynasty, which also combine various Chinese and Western decorative elements, are able to blend in a wide array of interior settings and therefore continue to appeal to contemporary interior designers and tastemakers worldwide.

In recent years, significant collectors of cloisonné enamel have emerged in Europe, Russia and Greater China, indicating a strong global interest for cloisonné enamel works of art.

PRESS CONTACTS:

Suky Lo | Hong Kong | +852 2978 6736 | sukylo@christies.com

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About Christie’s

Christie’s, the world's leading art business, had global auction and private sales in 2012 that totaled £3.92 billion/$6.27 billion. Christie’s is a name and place that speaks of extraordinary art, unparalleled service and expertise, as well as international glamour. Founded in 1766 by James Christie, Christie's has since conducted the greatest and most celebrated auctions through the centuries providing a popular showcase for the unique and the beautiful. Christie’s offers over 450 auctions annually in over 80 categories, including all areas of fine and decorative arts, jewellery, photographs, collectibles, wine, and more. Prices range from $200 to over $100 million. Christie's also has a long and successful history conducting private sales for its clients in all categories, with emphasis on Post-War and Contemporary, Impressionist and Modern, Old Masters and Jewellery.  Private sales totaled £631.3 million/$1 billion in 2012, an increase of 26% on the same period last year.

Christie’s has a global presence with 53 offices in 32 countries and 10 salerooms around the world including in London, New York, Paris, Geneva, Milan, Amsterdam, Dubai, Zürich, and Hong Kong. More recently, Christie’s has led in growth markets such as Russia, China, India and the Middle East, with successful sales, exhibitions and initiatives in Moscow, Baku, Beijing, Mumbai, Delhi, Jeddah, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Dubai.

*Estimates do not include buyer’s premium. Sales totals are hammer price plus buyer’s premium and do not reflect costs, financing fees or application of buyer’s or seller’s credits.

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