Kirin. Kuang-hsü Fantasy Tael Year 8 (1882)-Dated AU Details (Damage) PCGS, KM-XM322, Kann-F914, WS-1349-65, Wenchao-1310, SHI-54. Imitated by Wang Xi-Xian (Beijing). Variety with outlined border. A singular Fantasy issue that appears highly reminiscent of the style of the Aesthetic Movement prominent in European art around the same time period, featuring sharp, square motifs and a balanced symmetry throughout. Likely taking its inspiration from the extremely rare Pattern Taels produced in 1884 under Kuang-hsü (cf. L&M-503), the type opts for an austere geometric layout, creating visual movement through the contrast between busy and empty space. Only the second example we have offered, and the first of this subvariety. The noted damage appears in the left field on the reverse. Ex. Ponterio & Associates Auction 119 (April 2002, Lot 1204) From the Tony Ma Collection

HID09801242017

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