Chinese Porcelain Sells 1,000 Times More Than Estimate

A Chinese porcelain covered bowl decorated with enameled five-claw dragons and Kangxi period mark enclosed within double rings sold recently for $200,000. The bowl and a small famille rose covered teapot with Chinese characters were offered together in a lot estimated at $200 to $300. The bowl and teapot were part of a collection from a direct descendant of Thomas Alexander Scott (1823–1881), a Pennsylvania railroad executive and industrialist. In 1861, President Abraham Lincoln appointed him to serve as U.S. Assistant Secretary of War, and during the American Civil War, railroads under his leadership played a major role in the war effort.

Why such a high price? Could be the mark. Chinese porcelain with genuine Imperial marks is desirable. The Kangxi period (1662–1722) came just before the Yongzheng period, which is considered the pinnacle of Chinese ceramics production.

 

 

Photo: Briggs Auction