Description
Chinese export porcelain crane and prunus figure, Qianlong ca. 1750. The long-necked bird modeled standing next to a blossoming bough on a blue watery base.
Provenance: Robert Lee and Melanie Gill Collection, New York; The Chinese Porcelain Company, New York, 25 October 2002; The Distinguished Collection of Leo & Doris Hodroff.
Lot Essay:
The crane, this model likely for the Continental or Scandinavian market, has a long history in China. Small Blanc de Chine figures were produced at the Dehua kilns since the Kangxi period. The addition of prunus flowers and with polychrome likely were produced later at Jingdezhen. It is probable that these inspired Staffordshire salt-glazed figures produced in England about five years later.
The crane is an emblem of longevity in China, generally shown next to a pine tree, another symbol of long life. However, the plum blossom (along with the pine and bamboo plants) was one of the "three friends of winter," so named for their endurance in the cold. Their tenacious nature also became a symbol of longevity.
Height: 7 in x width: 4 1/2 in x depth: 3 1/2 in.
Provenance: Robert Lee and Melanie Gill Collection, New York; The Chinese Porcelain Company, New York, 25 October 2002; The Distinguished Collection of Leo & Doris Hodroff.
Lot Essay:
The crane, this model likely for the Continental or Scandinavian market, has a long history in China. Small Blanc de Chine figures were produced at the Dehua kilns since the Kangxi period. The addition of prunus flowers and with polychrome likely were produced later at Jingdezhen. It is probable that these inspired Staffordshire salt-glazed figures produced in England about five years later.
The crane is an emblem of longevity in China, generally shown next to a pine tree, another symbol of long life. However, the plum blossom (along with the pine and bamboo plants) was one of the "three friends of winter," so named for their endurance in the cold. Their tenacious nature also became a symbol of longevity.
Height: 7 in x width: 4 1/2 in x depth: 3 1/2 in.
Condition
The beak has been restruck and the very tip of the beak of the crane is chipped. There are repairs along the neck, lower branch, and upper branch, and along some of the flowers. Light wear to the footrim.
Buyer's Premium
30%
Chinese Export Crane & Prunus Figure
Estimate $1,000-$2,000
Starting Bid
$500
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This auction is curated by:
Sean BlanchetAsian Art Specialist
Robert SnellPaintings and Sculpture Specialist
Leo & Doris Hodroff Chinese Export Collection
Nov 12, 2026, 11:00 AM ESTSt. Paul, MN, United States
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