A large Ge-type hexagonal vase, Hu, Seal mark and period of Qianlong 清乾隆 仿哥釉六方貫耳壺 《大清乾隆年製》款

Vases of this form are based on the archaic bronze vessel, hu, and were first produced in the Yongzheng period, enjoying heightened popularity during the Qianlong reign. They were decorated in a range of glazes inspired by the celebrated wares of the Song dynasty; however, it is rare to find Qianlong examples with Ge-type glaze. See a smaller Qianlong vase of this type, sold in these rooms, 8th April 2009, lot 1651.