A large stoutly-potted moon flask vase. Its shape means “embracing the moon†and consists of a circular flattened body signifying the moon, a flat base, tubular neck and 2 applied handles which descend on either side to create an “embrace†between neck and body. This large 8-sided blue and white vase has a straight neck and stylized dragon handles curling from mid-neck to mid-shoulders. The vase’s center features a large circular roundel of famille verte color on a white ground. A band of blue key-fret encircles the rim. The neck is decorated with a spray of stylized lotus and vine. Each of the octagonal facets contains a stylized spray of lotus and vine, forming a floral border to the scene. The body design is identical on each side and its primary element is that of a large old pine tree supporting 8 pair of nesting cranes. A sizeable prunus tree is holding 14 small magpies. Three hibiscus shrubs are also present. All flora is growing from a clutch of rocks. Pine tree, cranes, prunus and rocks are longevity symbols. A magpie on a blossoming plum tree is joyfully announcing spring’s arrival and the plum is the first tree to bloom during late winter and early spring. This motif represents happiness in springtime and rejuvenation in old age, because the withered branches have burst into life again. A custom rectangular Hongmu carved stand is fitted to the base and both pieces nestle in their own cloth box.
Qianlong six characters reign mark, Qing Dynasty

Measurements: Height: 19 1/2" Width: 15 1/8"
Stand: Height: 2 7/8" Width: 8 1/4"

PROVENANCE: From The Collections of Mike and Annie Gaither, US Navy 1959-1982.
With a sense of duty for his country Mike joined the US Navy in 1959 the idea was to see the world and obtain an education that would propel his future. The opportunity to become part of the submarine fleet was compelling and once involved it became his career path of choice. In 1964 he married his lifelong partner Annie Nix. And to this day they are still happily married.
While in the Navy he specialized in communication and electronic repair and was able to obtain the rank of Radioman Chief Petty Officer during his time in the service he supervised crews of up to 25 in high speed communications, repair and records and Department Chief coordinating 8 repair divisions. Analyzing commands to discover systemic difficulties and training to resolve difficulties. Additional fields include intercultural and race relations, Drug and Alcohol training.
With a long career in the Navy his desire to visit many foreign countries was fulfilled.
His desire to be a leader in the open markets directed his path into the pastoral leadership where he was able to train and work with people in Italy Guam Saipan, Northern Marianas Islands, Republic of Palau, with visits to such countries Germany, and Asian Countries. With the opportunity to be in such places also provided the knowledge and ability to obtain collectables from the area. Reaching a point where one feels that it is time to downsize and realign their assets this has opened the door for others to add these items into their private collection. The quality is exceptional, pristine and highly sought after.


The Collections of Mike and Annie Gaither presented and offered up to auctions from Lot-140 through Lot-153, continued from Lot-268 through Lot-324, continued from Lot-415 through Lot-429, and Lot-439.

In Excellent condition over all.
All lots are sold as is and where is. Lauren Galleries provides condition reports upon request to aide in your bidding decision. No statement regarding age, condition, kind, value, or quality of a lot, whether made orally at the auction or at any other time, or in writing in this catalog or elsewhere, shall be construed to be an express or implied warranty, representation, or assumption of liability. All sales are final, Lauren Galleries does not give refunds based on condition. Lauren Galleries does not perform any shipping or packing services. We do have a list of suggested shippers who gladly provide quotes prior to your bidding. Please visit our webpage for a list of recommended shippers.