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A Copper-red-decorated 'peach' Vase, Meiping — 18TH-19TH CENTURY

A Copper-red-decorated 'peach' Vase, Meiping

18TH-19TH CENTURY

This meiping vase from the 18th or 19th century features a distinctive copper red glaze, a technically demanding decoration technique that was highly prized in Chinese porcelain production. The peach motif, symbolizing longevity and good fortune in Chinese culture, is rendered in the characteristic underglaze copper red that often produced subtle variations in tone due to kiln conditions. The compact, high shouldered form of the meiping shape was traditionally used for storing wine or precious substances, making this both a functional vessel and a display of refined artistic craftsmanship.

Provenance
Private collection, California, acquired in the United States prior to 1990 (by repute). Conditions of sale Brought to you by Rufus Chen (陳嘉安) Head of Sale, AVP, Specialist Check the condition report or get in touch for additional information about this ASIANARTNY@CHRISTIES.COM +1 212 636 2180 VIEW CONDITION REPORT
Spotted At
Auction House · Christie's

Notes

LOT ESSAY There are several notable vessels in the collection of the Palace Museum, Beijing, decorated in underglaze copper-red in a similar technique with sprays of fruit, such as a Qianlong-marked meiping, illustrated in Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum - 36 - Blue and White Porcelain with Underglaze Red (III), Hong Kong, 2000, p. 198. No. 173, and a vase of different form decorated with sprays of peaches, illustrated in ibid., p. 191, no. 175.

🔨 Auction Lot

Important Chinese Art

March 26, 2026

Estimate: $8,000 – $12,000

Sold: $27,940

Lot 643

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About this work

A Copper-red-decorated 'peach' Vase, Meiping, 18TH-19TH CENTURY

This meiping vase from the 18th or 19th century features a distinctive copper red glaze, a technically demanding decoration technique that was highly prized in Chinese porcelain production. The peach motif, symbolizing longevity and good fortune in Chinese culture, is rendered in the characteristic underglaze copper red that often produced subtle variations in tone due to kiln conditions. The compact, high shouldered form of the meiping shape was traditionally used for storing wine or precious substances, making this both a functional vessel and a display of refined artistic craftsmanship.

Seen at
Christie's, London, United Kingdom

Related themes

Peach symbolism, 18th-19th Century, Auspicious motifs, Porcelain painting, Copper-red decoration, Qing Dynasty, Meiping vase form, Elegant, Ceramic, Chinese