The square-sectioned vessel is supported on four feet and has rounded corners. The sides are carved in low relief with a band of confronted kui-dragons and two elephant - head ring handles. The cover is carved in a similar fashion below a dragon finial. It's with a finely carved fitted hongmu stand and a Japanese wooden box.
This distinctive vessel was carved in imitation of an archaic bronze form and would have originally held artist's materials. Coloured pigments were kept in the tubular compartments at each corner and subdivided by wooden compartments. The central compartment held a saucer and water for mixing the colours. For a discussion of the bronze prototypes, see Cheng Te Kun, 'The T'u-Lu Colour-Container of the Shang-Chou Period', B.M.F.E.A., no. 37, 1965, p. 239-249, pl. 1-6, where examples in jade, marble and pottery are also illustrated. This vessel may be compared in form, decoration and size to the jade tulu (14 cm wide) from the Qianlong period sold at Christie's London, 15 May 2012, lot 198. Aslo compare to a very close rock-crystal example, see Christie's London, 14/5/2019, lot 228.
12.8cm wide; 10.5cm high
Estimate $5,000 - $7,000
Overall in good condition.
The opinions expressed in the condition reports are a guide only and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Prospective buyers are encouraged to seek further information or request additional images during our pre-sale period where Leonard Joel staff are available for advice. Please note condition reports can be amended during the pre-sale period, so we strongly suggest any interested bidders check the published condition report available on the website before the auction commences. Leonard Joel makes no guarantee of the originality of mechanical or applied components. Absence of reference to such modifications does not imply that a lot is free from modifications.
A private collection, Auckland, New Zealand, acquired in Japan in the early 2000s.
Important Chinese & Asian Art
AUCTION
Sale: LJ8825
11:00am - 25 October 2026
Hawthorn
VIEWING
Thurs 22 - Sat 24 October, 11am - 5pm
2 Oxley Rd, Hawthorn VIC
CONTACT
Luke Guan
luke.guan@leonardjoel.com.au
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