August 29-30, 2018 Fine Art, Asian & Antiques
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/29/2018
17th-18th century, China. The cup depicts a mountainous scene forested with conifers and other exotic trees, cloud bands around the rim. The handle in the form of knarled tree trunks, carved in deep relief at the base of which reveals a covered barge exiting from the treed canopy on route down river. The cup with a wonderful amber color and undisturbed rich patina, accompanied by a later stand. Provenance: Acquired by the Reverend Stephen A. Hunter while a missionary in China from 1879 to 1891. Hand written documents from Rev. Hunter beginning in 1880 describe many of his activities during this time period and that he was active in Shandong, having established a church in Jining. It is during this period that he acquired the libation cup. Family lore states that he returned with a substantial collection of Chinese antiquities back with him to his home in Pittsburgh, Pa much was exhibited in a local church in 1895. The cup has descended by direct line through the family, Paul Stewart Hunter, son of Stephen Hunter inherited the cup from his father, which was then passed down to Alleen Moreland Hunter 1912 - 1983 daughter of Paul Hunter. There is a photograph published in the Denver Post in 1912 on page 6 of her baptism ceremony titled "Baby is Baptized with Water from Confucius Bowl" (referring to this libation cup). The reference relates to the area where Rev Hunter acquired the libation cup in China; the region where Confucius and the Kong family originated. Note: This object is accompanied by a certified CITES permit issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for this cup. Also with the cup is an appraisal issued in 2013 by Dr. Wei Yang certified member of the American Society of Appraisers and principle of Wei Yang Art, LLC. and a photocopy of the catalog and inventory page for the exhibition of the Hunter collection in 1895.
Item Dimensions: 4" x 6" x 3-3/4".