It sold to a museum from the stand of Jorge Welsh Works of Art. The London and Lisbon dealership was among many international galleries that made their way to the October 4-7 event at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, despite continued political unrest in the region.
“Ironically this was my best fair yet in Hong Kong,” Welsh said.
The plaque, which shows the risqué scene of a nude being bathed by her female servant, would have been created for a Western buyer c.1780-90. In the past, these European subject wares have had limited appeal for Asian buyers, but this example, offered for a six-figure sum, sold to a museum in China.
“This is the most important plaque of its kind, inspired by a French painting, and there was huge interest,” Welsh added. “We also sold pieces of porcelain from different periods, painted enamel on copper pieces, as well as two China Trade oil paintings, to museums and private collectors.”
