Qianlong (1736-95) mark and period dragon vase
Early Qing imperial porcelain has long been the darling of the Hong Kong Chinese auctions so when a Qianlong (1736-95) mark and period dragon vase with a previously unpublished pattern came up at Sotheby’s (20/15/10% buyer’s premium), Hong Kong on October 29, sparks flew and an auction record was set for a piece of Qianlong porcelain.
Vividly painted in rich cobalt blue, the vase depicted a tumultuous scene: four furiously writhing d…