HONG KONG.- Continuing the remarkable series of live auctions at Christies that has captivated collectors and connoisseurs, The Au Bak Ling Collection Volume III marks the highly anticipated third dedicated sale of one of the most celebrated private collections of Chinese ceramics offered at Christies Hong Kong. The sale further underscores the longstanding trust placed in Christies by collectors and families stewarding some of the worlds most prestigious private collections. Presented during Christies 40th anniversary year in Asia, it brings together 40 exceptional masterpieces spanning the Song to Qing dynasties. Distinguished by their rarity, provenance, historical significance, and remarkable state of preservation, the masterpieces from The Au Bak Ling Collection stand as a testament to the connoisseurship, scholarship, and collecting vision that shaped Au Bak Lings enduring legacy.
Leading this extraordinary lineup are an exceptionally fine imperial Xuande-period blue and white ritual flask, Ganlu Ping, and a possibly unique Yuan dynasty blue and white narrative jar:
A Remarkable Discovery that Captivates Connoisseurs
The Xuande Imperial Blue and White Ritual Flask, Ganlu Ping
Discovered in a distinguished English private collection in 1993, this remarkable flask represents an exceptional example of Xuande imperial porcelain. Produced for use in palace Buddhist ceremonies, it is distinguished by its lustrous glaze, vibrant cobalt-blue decoration, and refined potting, exemplifying the finest imperial wares of the 15th century. Revered for its rarity, beauty, and historical significance, the vessel has been preserved in exceptionally pristine condition, making it even more desirable for seasoned collectors.
A Fine and Extremely Rare Imperial Blue and White Quatrelobed Floral Flask, Ganlu Ping. Xuande Period (14261435), 10 13/16 in. (27.5 cm.) high. Estimate: HK$18,000,00038,000,000.
Echoes of a Vanished Stage
The Yuan Blue and White Xiwangmu Octagonal Jar
This impressive octagonal jar is decorated on its eight facets with a series of figures and narrative scenes. Together, they form a continuous story depicting Daoist immortals journeying to attend the legendary birthday banquet of the Queen Mother of the West (Xiwangmu), bearing celestial peaches as tribute gifts. During the Yuan dynasty, a number of theatrical plays recounted stories related to this subject, yet none survive today. As such, this jar preserves precious visual traces of a lost dramatic tradition from the 14th century. With its rare narrative decoration and unusual subject matter, it may well be unique among known Yuan blue and white wares.
A Magnificent and Possibly Unique Blue and White Octagonal Xiwangmu Narrative Jar. Yuan Dynasty (12791368), 15 in. (38 cm.) high. Estimate: HK$12,000,00035,000,000
Sale Highlights
An Exceedingly Rare and Superb Yangcai Swallow and Kingfisher Moonflask Qianlong Six-Character Seal Mark in Underglaze Blue and of the Period (17361795) 9 in. (23 cm.) high. Estimate: HK$10,000,00015,000,000
An Exceptionally Rare and Superb Imperial Blue and White Kui Dragon Stem Bowl Chenghua Period (14651487), 6 in. (15.2 cm.) diam. Estimate: HK$6,000,00012,000,000
A Fine and Possibly Unique Yangcai Immortals Vase. Yongzheng Six-Character Mark in Underglaze Blue within a Double Circle and of the Period (17231735), 15 1/8 in. (38.4 cm.) high. Estimate: HK$6,000,00010,000,000
An Exceptional and Possibly Unique Yangcai Reticulated Dragon Roundel Square Censer and Cover. Yongzheng Six-Character Seal Mark in Underglaze Blue and of the Period (17231735), 9 in. (23 cm.) high. Estimate: HK$4,000,0007,000,000
In 2026, Christies, the world-leading art and luxury business, is celebrating its 40th Anniversary in Asia. Over the last four decades, Christies has established itself as Asias leading house, orchestrating many of the regions most historic and record-breaking sales of exceptional objects and collections, driving region-wide expansion, and pioneering digital innovations that have redefined the way Asian collectors connect with and experience the industry. To celebrate this milestone, Christies is presenting a year-long programme of art and luxury sales, exhibitions and events across the region.
Auction Previews
Beijing | 1314 September | Christies Beijing Art Space, No. 82 Jinbao Street, Dong Cheng District, Beijing
Shanghai | 1920 September | Christies Shanghai Art Space BUND ONE, 4/F, No. 1 Zhongshan Dong Yi Road, Shanghai
Taipei | 1718 October | Taipei Marriott Hotel, Grand Space 3rd Floor, No. 199 Lequn 2nd Road, Taipei
Hong Kong | 2228 October | Christies Asia Pacific Headquarters, 6th Floor, The Henderson, 2 Murray Road, Central