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H.R.H., The Princess Mary, Princess Royal, Countess of Harewood (1897-1965): A Collection of Chinese Jade and Hardstone Carvings
As a young woman, newly moved into Harewood House, H.R.H. The Princess Mary, Princess Royal, Countess of Harewood (1897-1965) had already distinguished herself as an astute and assiduous collector of works of art. She seems to have shown particular favour for Chinese jades and hardstone carvings.
Her correspondence in 1930 specifically mentions these fascinating objects and illuminates a pragmatism and thoughtfulness of character which was so admired of the 'Yorkshire Princess'.
' I have a collection of Chinese amber, jade and hardstone trees etc. As these things are difficult to dust I am obliged to put them behind glass doors The amber etc. is all translucent and very pretty when lit with electric light.'
The hardstone trees mentioned are undoubtedly those presented here (lot 569) with their pendant hardstone foliage and elegant outline and are fine examples of their type.
From deep spinach green to white jades, translucent agate, and rock crystal carvings dating from the 17th century through to pieces contemporary with her early years at Harewood, the quality, colour and range of Princess Mary's Collection is worthy of mention.
The rich depth of carving to the Mughal style bowl (lot 581) as well as the quality of the white jade from which it is carved make it a superlative example of its kind. Similarly, the 'Jue' (lot 582) with its unusual and dynamic form demonstrates Princess Mary's keen eye for only the finest quality pieces.
A PAIR OF CHINESE CLOISONNE ENAMEL JARDINIERES WITH HARDSTONE FLOWERS
EARLY 19TH CENTURY
Details
A PAIR OF CHINESE CLOISONNE ENAMEL JARDINIERES WITH HARDSTONE FLOWERS
EARLY 19TH CENTURY
The jardinières each of canted square tapering form standing on four bracket feet, each of the main sides applied with a repoussé gilt-bronze panel depicting a stylised lotus and foliage, the corners with classic-scroll panels, all within cloisonné enamel borders of scrolling lotus on a turquoise ground, both inset with entwined fruiting vines raised on a metal support, the grapes carved from ametheyst and green quartz and the foliage green-stained bone
17¾ in. (45 cm.) high overall (2)
EARLY 19TH CENTURY
The jardinières each of canted square tapering form standing on four bracket feet, each of the main sides applied with a repoussé gilt-bronze panel depicting a stylised lotus and foliage, the corners with classic-scroll panels, all within cloisonné enamel borders of scrolling lotus on a turquoise ground, both inset with entwined fruiting vines raised on a metal support, the grapes carved from ametheyst and green quartz and the foliage green-stained bone
17¾ in. (45 cm.) high overall (2)
Provenance
Spink & Son Ltd., 3 February 1927, from where purchased by Henry, Viscount Lascelles and presumably by gift to
The Princess Mary, Princess Royal, Countess of Harewood (1897-1965), and by descent at Harewood House, Yorkshire.
The Princess Mary, Princess Royal, Countess of Harewood (1897-1965), and by descent at Harewood House, Yorkshire.
Sale room notice
In addition to the provenance in the printed catalogue, the present lot was purchased by Henry, Viscount Lascelles on 3 February 1927 from Spink & Son, Ltd.
Brought to you by
Sebastian Goetz
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