Another interesting Ming example was a large Lonquan Celadon Porcelain Charger measuring 21 inches across and of good coloration. While the $50,000 price was not a record, the amount realized reflects the lack of weakness in green wares, which in my opinion are relative bargains in today’s market. In particular Song through mid Ming examples with desirable tones of green can be had at very fair prices. Despite not being in particular favor for the time being, Celadons still have a loyal following.

In recent years as certain examples, in particular porcelains become increasingly rare the once stone wall reluctance by collectors to buy anything other than perfect examples has been eroding allowing renewed interest the rarest examples. As a case in point was the large 17 inch tall Ming Wanli jar with Shou Characters and a six-character mark brought $146,500 with a restored neck. This jar had a very nice shape and good deep cobalt decoration which overcame the negatives of the restoration.

The intense interest in Imperial examples also continues unabated. A great case in point was a Yellow Ground with nice clear green enamel “Dragon Vase” with an incised mark and of the Qianlong period (1736-1795). This was a really pretty 12 inch example and jumped up to $1,762,500. While this is not a record price for Imperial Qing vases, but one of the rarest types. The price realized demonstrates the still strong desire for fine and rare Imperial Wares

Finally among the Christies Chinese ceramic offerings was a pretty fantastic green glazed Cizhou baluster vase from the Song or Jin Dynasty (12^th C.). This classic example had a wonderful shape coupled with elegant black drawing over the fine near apple green colored ground. This was a very handsome and early example and the bidders rewarded its merit bringing the final selling price to $722,500.

The antique Japanese and Korean markets remain spotty with a few standouts drawing loads of interest. A fine pair of six panel Japanese screens by an anonymous artist brought nearly $1,000,000.00 and a Korean Choson period square Korean Bottle Vase selling for $482,500.

Finally perhaps one of the best examples of the year was a large 51 inch gilt bronze 15^th C. Tibetan bronze which brought $3,666,500. The casting of this example was done in sections due to its size and was simply among the very very best known. An elegant face and sublimely formed torso. A great one!!!