Dimensions: Height 18 cm Wide 8 cm Depth 8 cm

Weight: 319 grams

Porcelain, of slender baluster form with a slightly flaring neck, finely decorated in the famille verte palette on a glossy black (famille noire) ground. The exterior is vividly painted with a phoenix (fenghuang) standing upon stylised rockwork beside flowering plants and leafy branches, the long, elegantly trailing tail feathers rendered in shades of green, turquoise, aubergine, and iron red. Additional floral sprays and foliage enrich the composition, creating a dynamic contrast against the dark ground.

The interior and base are glazed in white, the base unmarked, with a neatly finished footrim showing typical kiln grit and firing wear consistent with the period. The quality of the enamels, confident linework, and balanced composition reflect the revival and reinterpretation of Kangxi decorative traditions popular during the late Qing period.

Famille verte and famille noire wares experienced renewed appreciation around 1800, when earlier Kangxi models were consciously emulated for the domestic and export markets. The phoenix, a symbol of virtue, harmony, and prosperity, is a favored auspicious motif, often associated with peace and good governance.

For lots marked with (R), a 19% VAT is added to the combined hammer price and commission. This VAT is waived for:

- Private buyers outside the EU who officially export the items.
- Businesses inside the EU holding a valid VAT number, exporting to their home country.

Proper export documentation is required to waive the VAT