China, 17th century. Naturalistically cast in the form of a gnarled and twisting prunus tree with open worked branches bearing neatly incised blossoms, two birds with wings outspread perched on the trunk and looking at each other, the vessel raised on four short feet.

Provenance: French trade.
Condition: Very good condition with minor wear and casting flaws, small nicks, light scratches. The bronze is covered in a rich, dark patina.

Weight: 927.2 g
Dimensions: Height 16.4 cm

Literature comparison:
Compare two vases in the form of large prunus trees illustrated by Ma Jinhong, Ming Qing Tongqi, Shanghai, 2004, figs. 81 and 82. For a comparable design, bearing an inscription, see Christie's London, 5 December 1994, lot 237A.

Auction result comparison:
Type: Closely related
Auction: Sotheby's Paris, 23 June 2016
Estimate: EUR 5,000 or approx. EUR 5,900 adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A bronze vase, late Ming to early Qing dynasty
Expert remark: Compare the closely related form and manner of casting. Note the short poetic inscription, which may be a later addition.