Longquan Celadon Five-Spouted Jar, Five Dynasties/Song Dynasty

The vessel is thickly potted, with an ovoid body divided into five horizontal lobes that gently taper toward the top. It is finely carved with rows of upright lotus petals beneath a narrow band of horizontal lines, a motif commonly associated with purity and spiritual enlightenment in Buddhist art.

Five short cylindrical spouts extend from the shoulder, suggesting a ritual function, possibly for multiple libations symbolizing abundance and the sharing of blessings. The cover is topped with a jar-shaped finial, echoing the form of the vessel and completing the composition in a balanced and harmonious manner.


Period : Song Dynasty (AD 960-1279)
Type : Celadon
Medium : Longquan ware
Height : 32.0 cm
Condition : The vessel retains its complete form with lid and tubular elements intact. Age-consistent glaze crackle and visible air bubbles are observed under magnification. Surface wear, mineral accretions, and oxidation are visible, particularly at the foot. No modern restoration is observed.
Provenance : Acquired in late 1990s from Hongkong
Reference :
1) Christies New York 10 MAY 2018 <The Collection of Peggy and David Rockefeller: Travel and Americana> - Lot 971
(Price realised : 13,750 USD / Type : Related)
https://www.christies.com/lot/a-longquan-celadon-five-spouted-jar-and-cover-6134978/?intObjectID=6134978&lid=1

2) Bonhams London 9 NOVEMBER 2017 <Fine Chinese Art> - Lot49
(Price realised : 3,750 GBP / Type : Closely Related)
https://www.bonhams.com/auction/24101/lot/49/a-longquan-celadon-glazed-five-spouted-jar-and-cover-song-dynasty-2/