How Much Is the Most Expensive Pottery
The most expensive pottery ever sold is a Chinese imperial yangcai revolving phoenix vase from the 18th century, which was bought for RMB 265.7m (US$41.6m) at an auction in Beijing.
This vase broke the previous record held by a ru-ware brush washer that sold for RMB 92m (US$13.3m) in 2019.
The imperial yangcai revolving vase measures 63 cm tall and is the largest of its kind in private hands.
It was commissioned by Emperor Qianlong during the Qing dynasty and created by Tang Ying, an official potter to the emperor’s court.
The vase has a double-layer structure, openwork decorations, and movable parts.
Its production took around 18 months, and only a few revolving vases have survived to this day.
Did You Know?
1. The most expensive pottery item ever sold at auction was a rare Chinese vase known as the “Qianlong Vase.” It was sold for a staggering $53 million in 2010.
2. The record for the most expensive American pottery piece goes to a unique redware jug made by American potter, Thomas Commeraw, in the early 19th century. It sold at an auction in 2006 for $396,500.
3. In 1991, a small pottery bowl, estimated to be around 1,000 years old, was discovered in a garage in England. This seemingly insignificant find turned out to be a rare Chinese “Ding” bowl, which later sold for $2.2 million.
4. The world’s oldest known pottery was found in the Xianrendong Cave in China and dates back to approximately 20,000 years ago. These ancient ceramic pieces suggest that pottery making originated long before previously thought.
5. The most expensive pottery item to be accidentally stumbled upon is the “Holy Grail of Chinese porcelain.” In 2013, a former homeowner in the United Kingdom found a rare 18th-century Chinese imperial porcelain vase, unknowingly using it as a flower vase for years. The vase sold for an astonishing $69 million!
Record-Breaking Sale: Chinese Imperial Yangcai Revolving Vase Fetches Rmb 265.7M (Us$41.6M)
In a historic auction held in Beijing, an 18th-century Chinese imperial yangcai revolving phoenix vase has set a new record as the most valuable ceramic vessel. The vase sold for an incredible RMB 265.7 million (US$41.6 million), surpassing the previous record held by a ru-ware brush washer, which sold for RMB 92 million (US$13.3 million) in 2019. This outstanding sale has captured the attention of art enthusiasts and collectors worldwide, shining a spotlight on the allure and value of Chinese pottery.
The journey of this extraordinary ceramic masterpiece began in 1999 when it made its auction debut and was acquired by Chinese art dealer William Chak for £331,500 (US$537,030). However, Chak later sold it to a prominent Asian collector who then decided to put it up for auction. The opening bid for the vase was set at RMB 200 million, and to the delight of onlookers, it received a total of 20 bids. Eventually, after the premium, the final price realized for this remarkable piece reached RMB 265.7 million. This astonishing amount is 77 times higher than its previous auction price, making it a truly record-breaking sale.
- The Chinese imperial yangcai revolving phoenix vase from the 18th century has set a new record as the most valuable ceramic vessel.
- The vase sold for RMB 265.7 million (US$41.6 million), surpassing the previous record held by a ru-ware brush washer.
- The vase was acquired in 1999 by Chinese art dealer William Chak for £331,500 (US$537,030).
- The vase received a total of 20 bids during the auction.
- The final price realized for the vase is 77 times higher than its previous auction price.
History Of The Vase: From Auction Debut To Prominent Collectors
Commissioned by Emperor Qianlong during the Qing dynasty, the Chinese imperial yangcai revolving vase holds a significant place in the history of Chinese pottery. The vase was created by Tang Ying, an official potter to the emperor’s court. Tang Ying was known for his exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, and the vase is a testament to his skill and artistry.
After its creation, the vase had a long and storied journey through the hands of various collectors. It first made its appearance at an auction in 1999 when it was acquired by William Chak. Later, it found its way into the possession of a prominent Asian collector, further enhancing its prestige. Its rarity and value caught the attention of collectors worldwide, which led to its recent monumental auction sale.
Unique Features Of The Vase: Double-Layer Structure And Movable Parts
The Chinese imperial yangcai revolving vase stands out from other ceramic vessels due to its unique features and exquisite craftsmanship. With a double-layer structure, this vase showcases complexity and beauty. The intricate construction and decoration of its movable parts highlight the skill and ingenuity of the artisans involved in its creation.
Measuring an impressive 63 cm tall, the mentioned revolving vase is the largest of its kind in private hands. Another example, measuring 73 cm tall, can be found in the collection of The Palace Museum of Beijing, making it the second-largest known vessel of its kind. The proportions and size of the vase contribute to its grandeur and visual impact, further enhancing its desirability and value.
Intricate Design And Craftsmanship: Firing Process And Production Timeline
The creation of the Chinese imperial yangcai revolving vase involved a meticulous firing process to ensure both its structural integrity and beauty. Before firing the vessel, drafts were made by Qing court painters, lending their artistry to the intricate bird decorations seen on the vase. These bird designs are reminiscent of illustrations in the “Manual of Birds,” an imperial album.
The production timeline for each revolving vase was considerable, averaging around 18 months. This extended timeframe was necessary to ensure that the firing process was executed flawlessly, guaranteeing uniform shrinking and preventing distortion or collapse. The complexities involved in the creation of this masterpiece highlight the skill and dedication of the artisans who crafted it.
- The creation of the Chinese imperial yangcai revolving vase involved a meticulous firing process.
- Drafts were made by Qing court painters, lending their artistry to the intricate bird decorations.
- The bird designs resemble illustrations in the “Manual of Birds.”
- Each revolving vase took approximately 18 months to produce.
- The extended timeframe was necessary to guarantee uniform shrinking and prevent distortion or collapse.
Rare And Precious: Few Surviving Examples Of Revolving Vases
Revolving vases, like the Chinese imperial yangcai vase, are incredibly rare and valuable. Only a limited number of these vessels have survived over time, making them even more desirable. The meticulous craftsmanship involved in their creation adds to their allure and makes them highly sought after by collectors and museums worldwide.
Taipei’s National Palace Museum is well-known for its collection of porcelain vessels, including outstanding examples of Chinese pottery. The recent acquisition of the Chinese imperial yangcai revolving vase by another esteemed Asian collector further illustrates the fascination and appreciation for these exceptional works of art.
The sale of the Chinese imperial yangcai revolving phoenix vase for RMB 265.7 million (US$41.6 million) sets a significant milestone in the realm of ceramic art. This groundbreaking sale, combined with the vase’s remarkable history, unique features, intricate design, and rarity, emphasizes the enduring appeal and value of Chinese pottery. It serves as a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the artists involved and leaves an indelible mark in the annals of art history.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What pottery is worth money?
Several types of pottery are highly prized for their monetary value. Meissen, Wedgwood, Royal Doulton, and Limoges pottery marks are among the most sought-after by collectors. These marks signify exceptional quality and craftsmanship, making pieces with these marks particularly valuable. Collectors are willing to pay a considerable sum to acquire pottery bearing these prestigious marks, as they are considered to be rare and distinguished.
What is the expensive pottery material?
Porcelain clay stands out as the most luxurious and costly pottery material. Revered for its delicate translucent appearance, porcelain is loved for its fine texture and ability to hold intricate details. Its exorbitant price tag is justified by the meticulous process involved in its production and the exquisite finished results, making it a desirable choice for high-end pottery and collectibles. With its elegance and refined quality, porcelain clay redefines luxury in the world of ceramics.
What is the most expensive Chinese pottery ever sold?
The most expensive Chinese pottery ever sold at auction is an ancient bowl that shattered previous records, fetching an astonishing price of $37.7 million. Surpassing the previous record holder, a minute porcelain cup that sold for $36 million in 2014, this historic bowl captivated bidders, with the intense competition leading to its remarkable final bid. This sale not only serves as a testament to the allure of Chinese ceramics but also highlights the enduring value and significance of these artifacts throughout history.
Is Japanese pottery valuable?
Japanese pottery can indeed be quite valuable, especially when it comes to porcelain pieces from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These items are highly sought after by collectors and can command prices ranging from $1,500 to $3,000. However, it is worth noting that one might be able to find Japanese porcelain at lower prices in auctions or on platforms like 1stDibs, making it more accessible to a wider range of potential buyers. Regardless, the inherent value and collectability of Japanese pottery remains prominent among enthusiasts.
