Sandbanks Antiques has dated these Chinese Blue White Vases to the 19th Century.
Late Qing Dynasty, c. 1880–1900 | Rare Pristine Condition | Hand-Thrown Porcelain
S. May Esquire Private Collection, London.
Each vase serves as a panoramic canvas for the ‘Literati at Leisure’ motif. Rendered with fluid, painterly brushwork, the scenes depict scholars and their attendants amidst a classic landscape of jagged rockwork, swirling mist, and lush plantain leaves—symbols of self-education and scholarly retreat.
The aesthetic is defined by a sophisticated use of Fenshui (ink-wash) tonal variation. The deep, inky blues of the figures contrast beautifully against the ethereal, soft-focus ‘bleeding’ (Yun San) of the landscape, a hallmark of traditional mineral cobalt. The milk-white glaze exhibits a luminous, oily depth with a delicate, clean-line crazing—a natural "certificate of age" that provides an authentic patina while maintaining structural integrity.
The bases feature a four-character Qianlong Nian Zhi mark in a sharp, concentrated underglaze blue, consistent with the high-quality revivalist workshops of the late 19th century.
The slight height variance between the two pieces (38cm and 39cm) serves as definitive proof of their hand-crafted, non-industrial origin, reflecting the natural kiln-shrinkage and hand-throwing techniques prized by discerning collectors.
Technical Specifications
Dimensions: H: 39cm and 38cm.
Material: Fine Porcelain with Underglaze Cobalt Blue.
Condition: Good. No chips, cracks, or restorations; clean-line age-related crazing.
Provenance: The G.S. May Esquire Private Collection, London.
Sandbanks Antiques has dated these Chinese Blue White Vases to the 19th Century.
Specialising in antique silver, gold boxes, gold coins and objects de vertu. Rare fine-quality imperial chinese porcelain, jades, cloisonné
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Sandbanks Antiques Profile Page
A Masterful Duo of ‘Scholar’s Retreat’ Chinese Baluster Vases Late Qing Dynasty, C. 1880–1900
