A GOOD LARGE ARCHAISTIC CLOISONNE ENAMEL VASE

the body of baluster shape, rising from a short spreading foot to a tall waisted neck set with a pair of dragon handles, brightly decorated around the body with a broad band of three large taotie masks divided by strapwork, all between lotus-lappet and whorl bands reserved on a strapwork ground, the neck similarly decorated with archaistic bands, the interior of the neck and base gilt

Formerly in a private collection, Berlin, purchased in 1989 (by repute).

Large cloisonne vessels of this type were made for decorating the many halls of the Imperial Palace. They are magnificent for their monumental size and elaborate decoration. For a related example see a large cloisonne vase sold in these rooms, 19th December 1980, lot 39; and another sold at Christie's London, 7th June 1993, lot 122.