Mounted Double-Gourd Vase

This beautiful and rare sea green celadon vase dates back to the Yuan dynasty of 14th-century China. Its double gourd shape is nearly obscured, however, by an energetic tangle of leaves, tendrils, and grapes that weaves its way up its sides and around its middle to end in a spiral on top. These gilt bronze mounts were added in the 18th century, by which time the vase had found its way to France. The mounts were probably paired with the vase in the shop of a high-end Parisian retailer, adding an extra touch of luxury to an already precious antique.