Sotheby's annual May sale of Asian art in London celebrates the breadth and depth of work produced across the continent, with a particular focus on Chinese ceramics and works of art and Buddhist devotional art. The sale is led by an expansive collection of Tang dynasty (618–907) sancai wares formerly in the Sze Yuan Tang Collection; a selection of early wares fresh to the market, including a fine 'Yue' celadon-glazed ewer and a rare pair of Yuan dynasty (1271–1368) temple vases; and a finely cast bronze ritual vessel (Ding) from the Eastern Zhou dynasty (770–256 BCE).

The Buddhist section of the sale is led by a finely carved Gandharan schist head of the Buddha from the collection of the late Karen Beagle.

The sale also includes a carefully assembled Pan-Asian offering from a scholarly Swiss private collection, each of the lots with superb provenance; and Japanese works of art including a pair of fine Edo period screens depicting scenes from the Tale of Genji and a 14th-century katana.

As of 28 June 2025, lots in this auction that are of non-EU origin, of a certain age and, in some categories, above a certain value may be subject to additional requirements for import into the European Union. Bidders are advised to make their own enquiries and obtain independent advice to determine whether these additional requirements apply to a given lot before bidding. It is the Buyer's responsibility to apply for any required export or import licence or permit, and/or submit an importer statement, where required. A Buyer’s inability or delay in obtaining an export or import licence or permit, and/or submitting an importer statement, where required, will not be a legitimate basis for sale cancellation or a delay in payment.

For assistance with bidding and registration, please contact:

Bids.london@sothebys.com

+44 (0) 207 293 5283

For sale enquiries please contact:

Julian King

Head of Department | Chinese Works Of Art

JULIAN.KING@SOTHEBYS.COM

Samson Kunin

Associate Specialist & Researcher | Chinese Works Of Art

+44 20 7293 5225

SAMSON.KUNIN@SOTHEBYS.COM

Tiffany Po

Pre-Sale Coordinator

+44 20 7293 5090

TIFFANY.PO@SOTHEBYS.COM