Chinese Ceramics from the Collection of an America Gentleman

People Make the World Go Round was the title of a 1970s song by The Stylistics. They certainly do. People come and go; they come bringing their prized collections, and they may take it with them when they leave. However, sometimes they also change. Their tastes, habits or goals might change. If that is the case, they might decide not to take everything with them but instead try to find new homes for the items with which they have lived and enjoyed for many years.

On Sunday, May 15th, 2016, we will offer a special collection which primarily consists of Chinese ceramics from the collection of an America gentleman at his own handsome apartment in the center of Jakarta. He has been living in Jakarta for seventeen years. His collection has been built up piece by piece, item by item over the years, since even before he lived in Jakarta. The items were purchased from galleries, auction houses and even on-line auctions.

            Among the most interesting pieces in the collection are two blue and white pieces. The 19 century Late Qing blue and white tulip vase (lot #946) is particularly interesting because of its unique curvaceous form. Meanwhile, the form of the 14th century Yuan blue and white square ink pot (lot #948) seems simple, it's ordered elegance is what makes the piece attractive.

            The colorful 19th century apocryphal Qianiong Chinese mille fleur bottle vase with six character mark in iron red enamel on the base (#904) and the Republic yellow and red footed dragon dish with Jiaqing marks (lot #947) will appeal to many. The three dimensional dragon form on the Jiaqing Chinese Dragon Vase (lot #943) is simply fantastic.

            A set of two Chinese opium boxes, one silver with figures and the other silver cloissonée with decorations of red flowers (lot #944) are among the handsome decorative items in this auction. Among the items of furniture, the six paneled Chinese lacquer screen with leaves decoration (lot #945) would be hard to miss.

            The collector has selected and purchased these lots and other lots in this auction for their beauty, whether they maybe determined by colors, forms, texture, or any other aspects that contribute to shaping their aesthetic qualities. Now he has decided to part with his prized collection, and the proceeds are meant to benefit certain charities that work for the needy.

From the collection of another American gentleman, two Chinese Jade Bi Disks (Late Neolithic Qijia Culture) (lots #941 & 941) are also offered in this auction. Their stark, bold forms combined with the colors and texture of material, make them simply exquisite.

The viewing and auction of these collections will be held at an apartment at Somerset Grand Citra, Jakarta. Viewing is available Saturday - Sunday, 7 - 8 May 2016 and Thursday - Saturday, 12 - 14 May 2016, while the auction will be held on Sunday, 15 May 2016.

            You can also make the world go round by participating in this auction. Don't worry if you think you will yet make a purchase, you are welcome just to view the beautiful lots. However, you might be interested in coming to the auction, which would be an experience that can be quite enjoyable! Don't miss it!

Amir Sidharta