A CORAL-GROUND AND BLUE-ENAMELED BRUSHPOT Qianlong seal mark, Republic periodPROPERTY OF A PACIFIC NORTHWEST COLLECTORA CORAL-GROUND AND BLUE-ENAMELED BRUSHPOTQianlong seal mark, Republic periodThe cylindrical sides supported on an integral faux bois stand, the exterior of the brushpot covered in an even iron-red glaze, the vibrant vermillion surface suffused with a subtle iridescence from the inherent qualities of the metallic pigment, one side painted in contrasting overglaze blue enamel with a garden issuing peonies, ground orchids, and lingzhi amidst rockwork, a few of the leaves and stems extending to the other sides, all between a gilt rim and an integral molded and carved stand terminating in five ruyi-form feet, the stand enameled in a dark russet tone and finely painted with gilt details imitating wood inlaid with gold wire, the interior and the base both enameled in turquoise, the base centered by a reserved square enclosing a six-character seal mark in iron red. 5 5/8in (14.3cm) high民國時期 紅地藍料花卉紋筆筒《大清乾隆年制》篆書款Provenance:Acquired prior to the 1950s, thence by descent The present brushpot is a rare example of both the use of coral ground on a brushpot, and the direct application of blue enamel against this ground. The striking contrast of color and texture masterfully imitate the visual impact sought by porcelain painters at the imperial kilns during the Qianlong period (r. 1736-1795). So, too, does the integral stand carefully enameled in imitation of wire-inlaid wood stands, a tromp l'oeil effect that the Emperor so appreciated. The iridescent quality of the coral ground and the representation of the gilt-decorated faux bois stand are inspired by Qianlong mark and period examples with these traits, such as a wall vase sold first at Christie's, Hong Kong, 1 June 2011, lot 4015, and later at Sotheby's, Hong Kong, 7 October 2015, lot 3715.