Presenting 15 Exquisite Pieces of Ming Furniture From the Collection Assembled Over Three Decades
Hong Kong – Bonhams announces the opening of its new Asia headquarters at Six Pacific Place this November, a strategic move that underscores the Company’s commitment to the region and aligns with its expanding operations in Asia. The new headquarters, encompassing 19,000 square feet across three floors, will serve as a dynamic hub for a year-round programme of sales, exhibitions, and events. Kicking off the inaugural sales series is the highly celebrated Dr. Shing-Yiu Yip Collection of Classic Chinese Furniture, regarded as one of the finest private collections of Ming dynasty furniture in the world. Taking place on 27 November 2024, this exceptional sale will feature 15 pieces from the esteemed collection, with a combined estimate in excess of HK$50,000,000.
A DISTINGUISHED COLLECTION WITH IMPECCABLE PROVENANCE
The unrivalled Dr. Shing-Yiu Yip Collection of Ming dynasty furniture was meticulously assembled throughout the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s, to include all furniture categories. As an avid collector, Dr. Yip’s journey into the realm of Chinese art began in 1969, initially focusing on paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, and jade wares. His fascination with Ming dynasty furniture took root in 1988, propelling him to build a world-class collection. The majority of these pieces were acquired from the gallery of Grace Wu, a leading expert and dealer in Ming furniture, widely acclaimed as the “Queen of Huanghuali". Celebrated for its exceptional quality and rarity, 68 sets from the Dr. Yip Collection were showcased at The Chinese University of Hong Kong in 1991, accompanied by a catalogue published for the occasion. The collection is noted for receiving high praise from the esteemed Ming furniture scholar and connoisseur Wang Shixiang, who recognised it as the first private Chinese furniture exhibition in the world to feature a dedicated catalogue. Many of his treasures have since been widely exhibited in Hong Kong and abroad, with more published catalogues.
Dr. S.Y. Yip commented: “The title of this sale evokes memories of my exhibition sixteen years ago at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, where I first showcased my collection in 1991. This sale features a comprehensive range of furniture that serves as a miniature representation of the selection from that exhibition. At this stage of my life, I am pleased to share these treasured pieces with collectors around the world who truly appreciate the beauty of Ming furniture."
Julia Hu, Bonhams’ Managing Director, Asia, added: “We are honoured to headline our inaugural sales with the distinguished Dr. Shing-Yiu Yip Collection. This museum-quality assemblage of Ming furniture showcases a unique combination of quality and rarity, featuring pieces seldom seen on the market that exemplify the pinnacle of craftsmanship. We look forward to welcoming our clients to the preview at our new Asia headquarters, where they can immerse themselves in the beauty and artistry of these extraordinary treasures.”
“It is a privilege to be entrusted by Dr. S.Y. Yip with the sale of his esteemed Ming furniture collection," said Gigi Yu, Bonhams Head of the Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art. “This collection truly stands among the best of the best. Not only does it embody Dr. Yip’s connoisseurship and unwavering passion throughout his collecting journey, but it also showcases his discerning eye for the finest details and his commitment to the highest standards. This sale presents a remarkable diversity of furniture, with each piece transcending time and exuding a minimalist elegance that seamlessly fits into today’s living spaces."
SALE HIGHLIGHTS
The sale features 15 pieces of furniture, showcasing a variety from a round ji table to a sloping-style cabinet, a painting table, a bookcase, and a coffer, highlighting the breadth of the Dr. Shing-Yiu Yip Collection.
The leading lot is a Magnificent and Extremely Rare Marble-Inset Huanghuali Five-Legged High Waist Round Ji Table, Late 16th to early 17th century (estimate upon request). Round ji tables are among the rarest examples of classic Chinese furniture, and this exquisite piece stands out for its remarkable craftsmanship. Featuring a stunning dalishi marble top, the elegantly carved beaded-edged uprights and intricate openwork panels showcase floral and leaf motifs. The deep curvilinear aprons and gracefully flared legs culminate in leaf-shaped feet, all crafted from a single piece of wood. With only one comparable example known in the de Santos Collection, this table is not just a functional piece but also a rare masterpiece of artistry and design.
Another major highlight is a Massive and Magnificent Carved Huanghuali Painting Table, Hua An, Late 16th to Early 17th Century (Estimate: HK$6,000,000 – 8,000,000)
Additional Highlights:
An Extraordinary Pair of Huanghuali Sloping-Stile Wood-Hinged Cabinets, Yuanjiaogui, Late 16th to Early 17th Century (Estimate: HK$3,000,000 – 5,000,000)
This pair of sloping-stile, wood-hinged cabinets exemplifies the finest craftsmanship in classic Chinese furniture, showcasing the exquisite beauty of huanghuali wood. Their elegant design features recessed stiles and clean lines, with doors that seamlessly integrate into the frame, enhancing their refined balance. With magnificent colour and grain patterns, these cabinets not only serve a practical purpose but also stand as masterpieces of the Chinese cabinet-maker.
A Superbly Carved Huanghuali ‘Phoenix’ Banzhuo Table, Late 16th to Early 17th Century (Estimate: HK$4,500,000 – 6,000,000)
This exquisite table features finely carved aprons and spandrels, showcasing a lively phoenix among clouds flanking the sun, representing a rare departure from the clean aesthetics of 17th century furniture. Known as a ‘low table with extended legs,’ it’s part of a unique group of side tables reminiscent of the kang table. Notably, another similar example is from Wang Shixiang’s collection and is now in the Shanghai Museum. Its graceful curves and intricate motifs, including phoenixes and birds on flowering branches, embody a feminine quality and reflect the coexistence of diverse styles during this period.
- A Remarkable Pair of Huanghuali Horseshoe Armchairs, Late 16th to Early 17th Century (Estimate: HK$1,800,000 – 3,000,000; pictured left)
- An Exquisite and Rare Wumu and Huanghuali Bookcase, 17th to 18th Century (Estimate: HK$3,000,000 – 5,000,000)
NEW ASIA HEADQUARTERS: USHERING IN A NEW ERA OF COLLECTING
The sale of the renowned Dr. Shing-Yiu Yip Collection marks a significant milestone at Bonhams’ new Asia headquarters in Hong Kong, heralding an exciting lineup of art and luxury sales scheduled from late November to early December. These sales will take place in our upgraded, flexible premises at Six Pacific Place, featuring galleries and a permanent saleroom designed to enhance the client experience. The Hong Kong Autumn 2024 sale calendar is available below. For the latest updates, please visit bonhams.com.
