A Qing Dynasty Flambe Vase

A baluster form vase with rich flambe glaze.

This rich, glossy vase is of good proportion and excellent quality. The saturated flambé glaze was first discovered between the 11th and 13th century in China and original examples are extremely rare today. The firing process for this type of object involves an oxidisation process of iron and copper which results in various shades from brilliant ox blood to deep purple. Examples with streaks of colour interrupting the dark base colour, as can be seen here, were especially sought after during the 19th century.