Hong Punch Bowls and Important George III Furniture Available in Upcoming Sotheby’s Auction

Trade flourished between China and Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries. The Canton port was a prime location for these overseas trades of luxury Chinese goods. Hong punch bowls are among the noteworthy artifacts that recorded this exchange. These punch bowls featured paintings of warehouses or hongs located on the Canton riverfront. The upcoming Sotheby’s auction features a hong punch bowl from the Qianlong period. The available porcelain ware depicts the continuously lined hongs along the Canton harbor. The multiple flags in front of the hongs date the bowl’s manufacturing period from 1780 to 1785. Its interior has floral motifs in green, red, and gold.

Also featured is a still life painting by French Rococo painter Jean-Baptiste Oudry. His still-life paintings received recognition from Kings like Louis XV. Oudry’s artwork was notable for its intricate detailing and mastery of the chiaroscuro technique. The available oil painting portrays fruits and a purse containing coins and cards assembled on a stone shelf. Another highlight is a circa 1780 George III console table with papier-mâché adornments. Attributed to Henry Clay, the console showcases the utilization of Clay’s ‘new Improved Paper-ware.’ The semi-circular parcel gilt cream table utilizes papier-mâché panels in the manner of Henry Clay. The auction also presents The Majesty of Greenwich by James Webb. The artwork depicts the influence of Naturalism and Romanticism on his work. Collectors can also consider multiple Chamberlain Worcester porcelain articles, pieces of George II and Regency furniture, and famille rose porcelain. Interested collectors can explore the entire catalog and register to bid online by visiting Sotheby’s auction house.