ANTIQUE 18TH CENTURY QING DYNASTY CLOISONNÉ BOTTLE VASE — QIANLONG PERIOD, C. 1736–1795

A rare and magnificent 18th century Chinese cloisonné enamel vase, dating to the High Qing Dynasty — Qianlong Reign (1736–1795). This is not a later revival piece — it is a genuine imperial-era antique, crafted during one of the most celebrated periods in Chinese art history.

Fashioned in the classic Tianqiuping (Sky Sphere Vase) form — a shape favoured by the Imperial Court — the vase features a beautifully proportioned bulbous body rising to a tall, elegant slender neck. The entire surface is masterfully decorated with hand-wrought copper wire cloisonné depicting scrolling lotus flowers and foliage winding across a vibrant, rich turquoise ground. The enamel colours — deep cobalt blue, ruby red, emerald green, and pure white — are of exceptional depth and saturation, characteristic of the finest 18th century imperial workshops.

The rim and foot are finished in thick, rich gilding, and the base bears a finely hand-carved four-character Qianlong Nian Zhi mark — "Made in the Qianlong Reign" — executed in the distinct style of the period.

Of extraordinary significance is part of the original paper label. This provenance confirms the vase was recognised as a genuine 18th century piece when acquired, and has been preserved in an important private collection for decades.

- Period: Qing Dynasty, Qianlong Reign — c. 1736–1795
- Origin: Imperial Workshops, Beijing, China
- Technique: Cloisonné enamel on copper core, hand-filed wire partitions, hand-applied enamel, fire-gilded rim and foot
- Symbolism: The scrolling lotus motif represents purity, harmony, and prosperity — a design reserved for objects of the highest quality intended for the imperial family or high-ranking officials

SPECIFICATIONS

Detail Information
Height 20.9cm
Width at widest 11.2 cm
Material Copper body, cloisonné enamel, gilded rim foot
Mark 乾隆年製 — Qianlong Nian Zhi, hand-carved to base
Provenance Eug partial label intact
Shape Tianqiuping — Sky Sphere Bottle Vase - Period 18th century, Qianlong Period (1736–1795)

CONDITION REPORT

Authentic 18th century condition — beautifully preserved

- Enamel surfaces retain their original rich depth and subtle matte patina — distinct from the brighter, glossier enamel of later periods
- Minor, expected age-related wear consistent with 250+ years of careful ownership
- See detailed photos some enamel loss, no repairs — structurally perfect, base not 100% flat.
- Gilding to rim and foot remains substantial and bright with some areas of wear.
- Interior shows natural dark patina — completely original and untouched

This is not a restored or over-cleaned piece — it has been gently preserved in its original state, retaining all the beautiful character and patina of its age.

WHY THIS IS EXTRAORDINARY

"Genuine 18th century imperial cloisonné of this quality is increasingly scarce on the market. Most pieces offered as 'Qianlong' are 19th century or later revivals. This vase — with its deep, rich enamel palette, fine hand-wrought wirework, authentic carved mark, represents a rare opportunity to acquire a piece that would be equally at home in a museum or the finest private collection.

A LEGACY OF IMPERIAL BEAUTY — OVER 250 YEARS OLD AND STILL MAGNIFICENT

True antiques of this calibre and provenance do not appear often. This is not merely a decorative object — it is a piece of history, a testament to the unparalleled craftsmanship of the Qing Dynasty imperial artisans, and an heirloom to be cherished and passed down through generations.