
Description
This rare Turtle and Crane find is a masterful example of the "Golden Hour" aesthetic. These are not standard export porcelain, but a signed and documented pair of Cheng Lung Chi "Bodiless" Lacquer vases"”one of the "Three Treasures" of Chinese decorative arts. Unlike heavy bronze or ceramic, these utilize the ancient Tuotai technique, where layers of silk and lacquer are built up to create a vessel that is impossibly light yet possesses a depth of finish that rivals a gemstone.
Finished in a rare Burnished Bronze glaze, this pair radiates warmth. The hand-painted continuous landscape is meticulously rendered in gilt and sumi-ink tones, depicting a serene world of pagodas, mountain mists, and willow trees. Resting on their original custom-fitted black lacquer stands, they elevate the classic Chinoiserie silhouette into a work of sculptural art.
Perfect for the Grandmillennial collector or a lush Palm Beach Regency entryway, these vases offer the visual weight of bronze without the heaviness. We love them styled symmetrically on a navy lacquer console or flanking a lucite shelf, where their "liquid gold" finish can truly glow. A sophisticated, documented alternative to the mass-produced, bringing instant history and warmth to a curated space.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Excellent Vintage Condition. The lacquer retains its high-gloss satin luster. Minor honest wear consistent with age and history.
"• Markings: "Cheng Lung Chi Lacquer Ware / Foochow China" stamp on base.
Dimensions:
Height: 14.5 in.
Width: 6 in.
Depth: 6 in.
Category: Vases
Origin: China
Materials: Gold Leaf, Lacquer, Silk, Wood
Creator: Styled After: James Mont
Shipping:Domestic: Flat-rate of $42.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S. International: No International Shipping for this auction. Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding. Location: This item ships from Mobile, AL
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Finished in a rare Burnished Bronze glaze, this pair radiates warmth. The hand-painted continuous landscape is meticulously rendered in gilt and sumi-ink tones, depicting a serene world of pagodas, mountain mists, and willow trees. Resting on their original custom-fitted black lacquer stands, they elevate the classic Chinoiserie silhouette into a work of sculptural art.
Perfect for the Grandmillennial collector or a lush Palm Beach Regency entryway, these vases offer the visual weight of bronze without the heaviness. We love them styled symmetrically on a navy lacquer console or flanking a lucite shelf, where their "liquid gold" finish can truly glow. A sophisticated, documented alternative to the mass-produced, bringing instant history and warmth to a curated space.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Excellent Vintage Condition. The lacquer retains its high-gloss satin luster. Minor honest wear consistent with age and history.
"• Markings: "Cheng Lung Chi Lacquer Ware / Foochow China" stamp on base.
Dimensions:
Height: 14.5 in.
Width: 6 in.
Depth: 6 in.
Category: Vases
Origin: China
Materials: Gold Leaf, Lacquer, Silk, Wood
Creator: Styled After: James Mont
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Condition
Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Excellent Vintage Condition. The lacquer retains its high-gloss satin luster. Minor honest wear consistent with age and history.
• Markings: "Cheng Lung Chi Lacquer Ware / Foochow China" stamp on base.
• Markings: "Cheng Lung Chi Lacquer Ware / Foochow China" stamp on base.
Buyer's Premium
20%
1960s Monumental "Bodiless" Lacquer Vases by Cheng Lung Chi - James Mont Style
Estimate $350-$1,040
Starting Price
$280
1 bidder is watching this item
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Antiques and Decorative Arts
Feb 26, 2026 7:00 PM ESTNew York, NY, United States
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