15th Jul, 2022 9:30 GMT/BST
David Battie: A Study Collection
6
A Dutch-Decorated Blanc de Chine Wine Cup, 2nd half 17th century, of flared octagonal form, painted in kakiemon style with a banded hedge, pine, prunus and bamboo within a bitter chocolate rim, on four stub feet, bears four character mark in red, 6cm wide
At first glance the four red Chinese characters are easily dismissible as a Western attempt at a Chinese mark, but after spending a bit of time with them, the first two characters (top and bottom right) are- with some leeway- readable. The first meaning “Ben”- a book and the second “Mi”- a river in Hunan Province. As when reading Chinese or Japanese characters there can be many interpretations which may be multiplied by inscrutable calligraphy and the lack of skill of the reader.
Sold for £280
Estimated at £200 - £300
Hair crack to the rim, one small abrasions to the rim, light enamel wear
We are happy to provide Condition Reports to prospective buyers, but would welcome your request as soon as possible, preferably at least 48 hours before the Day of Sale. We cannot guarantee a reply to any requests made within 48 hours of the start of the auction. The absence of a Condition Report from a lot does not mean that the lot is in perfect condition. A Condition Report is an honest expression of our opinion, not a statement of fact and is provided as a service to the seller. All lots are available on public view ahead of an auction and we encourage prospective buyers to inspect an item in person where possible. Our Condition Reports are not prepared by professional conservators, restorers, or engineers, and are prepared with the naked eye unless otherwise stated.
Regarding Pictures, Prints and Works on Paper, works are not examined out of the frame, unless specifically stated. Tennants Auctioneers do not cover damage to gilded wood or plaster picture frames, or to picture frame glass whilst the item is in our possession.
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Auction: David Battie: A Study Collection, 15th Jul, 2022
This Summer Tennants Auctioneers are delighted to present a single-owner sale of ceramics and collector’s curiosities in David Battie: A Study Collection. The sale will comprise over 180 lots of academic interest from David Battie’s extensive and important collection. With an eye for the unusual, David Battie has assembled a fascinating collection filled with rare and interesting pieces.
David Battie joined Sotheby’s in 1965 and worked in the Ceramics and Oriental Art Departments before being made a director in 1976. He was a regular face on the Antiques Roadshow for many years and appeared on the show from the first episode, which was aired in 1977. A leading authority on ceramics, and in particular Chinese and Japanese ceramics, David has written numerous publications on the subject.
Viewing
Sunday 10 July 11am-4pm, Monday 11 July to Thursday 14 July 10am-4pm and morning of sale from 8am. Viewing is open to the public, there is no need to make an appointment.
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