A GILT-SPLASHED BRONZE VASE, China, Qing Dynasty (1644-1911)

Cast in a hexagonal cross-section, the wide, bell-shaped foot, the semi-oval body and the long, slightly flared neck are studded on each face with gold flecks; the handles are elegantly cast in the shape of dragons. The base bears the six-character apocryphal mark of Emperor Xuande in the centre of a circle formed by two chasing dragons.

Provenance: from a distinguished private Italian collection.