Imperial porcelain made during the successive reigns of Kangxi, Yongzheng and Qianlong, of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) are known for the delicate techniques, fine styles and varieties of decorative motifs to present high artistry. Those made to the orders of Qianlong particularly show sophistication to meet his enthusiasm in art and crafts.

Two such examples of refinement will go under the hammer at Poly Auction's sales in Hong Kong, in early April. One is a cobalt blue qinghua ware that was modeled after zun, a type of bronze wine vessels of the Shang (c. 16th century-11th century BC) and Zhou (c. 11th century-771 BC) dynasties. It features floral and water wave patterns, neatly arranged from the mouth, neck to bottom, which were recurring motifs of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) qinghua wares.