Junkunc- Arts of Ancient China II

Famed collector Stephen Junkunc III spent his years assembling one of the most impressive collections of Asian works of art. Sotheby’s was privileged with offering items from Junkunc’s collection in their March 2019 auction, Arts of Ancient China. In celebration of Asia Week, Sotheby’s once again offers rare and exceptional weapons, jade animals, gilt-bronzes and inlaid fittings from Stephen Junkunc’s collection, in their forthcoming Arts of Ancient China II Auction. 

This portion of Junkunc’s collection is highlighted by an exceptional and rare carved jade. In the shape of a camel peacefully reclined, the softly polished beige jade with brown striation accentuates the life-like nature of the carving, which dates to the Tang Dynasty. Contrasting the serenity of a carved camel among the many available jade items is an archaic calcified jade ceremonial blade. This Neolithic artifact includes a curved blade, flaring at the end with a pierced hole on the handle. The beige tint of the jade appears sporadically across the calcified portions. 

In addition to the extraordinary jade items are several pieces of fine metalwork. First among them is a magnificent gilt-bronze and silver-lined stem cup from the Tang Dynasty. A testimony to the prosperity of the Tang years, the cup includes fine lines and boldly detailed foliage on both the body and base of the cup. From the Han Dynasty, a silver and gold-inlaid bronze figure of a mythical beast gives a glimpse into both the creativity and craftsmanship of the era. 

Those interested in the fine works of ancient China will do well to peruse the collection of Stephen Junkunc III. To view all 59 available lots and register to bid, visit Sotheby’s today.