A Rare Yue Celadon Cong-Shaped Vase, Western Jin Dynasty(3-5th C)

This vessel is an exceptionally rare example believed to represent a Cong-shaped ceramic attributable to the Jin Dynasty, and it may be the only known ceramic work of this form from the period. While certain formal similarities have led some scholars to tentatively associate it with the Song Dynasty or later, the present work is more convincingly attributed to the Western Jin Dynasty (3rd–4th century CE).

The vessel is constructed with a cylindrical inner structure and a square outer profile, conforming to the characteristic geometry of the ancient Cong (琮) form. Its surface is decorated with restrained geometric incised patterns. This structural concept is directly derived from ancient jade Cong (玉琮), which represent the earliest and most authoritative prototypes of the form. Jade Congs dating to approximately 2500 BCE are well documented, with important examples preserved in the collections of the British Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET). These jade works establish the formal lineage upon which later Cong-shaped ceramics were developed.

The glaze exhibits a muted olive-brown tone characteristic of Western Jin Yue ware, distinct from the clearer and more refined celadon glazes of later periods. The surface retains a slightly coarse, granular texture, a feature consistent with early celadon technology prior to later technical refinement.

Period : Jin Dynasty (266 - 420 AD)
Type : Cong-Shape Vase
Medium : Yue celadon(Stoneware)
Size : 27.5cm(Height), 11cm(Diameter)
Provenance : The piece was acquired in Hong Kong in the late 1990s.
Condition : Good(The vessel is well preserved overall. Localized surface alteration on one side is consistent with prolonged contact during burial or excavation. Wear and oxidation are visible at the foot. The form is intact and stable.)
Reference :
1) MET - Ritual object (cong) - Object Number: 2004.52
(Type : related)
https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/72376

2) Christies Hongkong 30 May 2023 - A RARE YUE CELADON CIRCULAR TRIPOD INK STONE AND COVER - Lot 3318
(Price : 189,000 HKD / Type : Related)
https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-6427808

3) British Museum - Jade Cong, Liangzhu Culture, 2,500 B.C.E.
(Type : Related)
https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/galleries/chinese-jade

* Yue Celadon

Yue celadon, also known as Yue ware, is a type of Chinese pottery with a celadon glaze, originating from the eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD) in the Zhejiang province. The name 'Yue' comes from the Yue kilns which were among the earliest to develop the celadon technique. Yue ware is known for its jade-like glaze, which can range in color from bluish-green to olive green.

Yue celadon was highly regarded during its time and was the first Chinese ware to be imported in large quantities to the Middle East and Africa, significantly influencing the development of ceramics in those regions. The production of Yue ware continued to evolve, and during the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD), it became more refined with more complex shapes and decorations. By the time of the Song dynasty (960-1279 AD), it had greatly influenced other kiln traditions, leading to the development of the classic longquan celadon, which became one of China’s most famous ceramic products.

Yue celadon traditionally embodies elements of auspiciousness and good fortune in Chinese culture. The jade-like celadon glaze is often associated with longevity and health. Various motifs and shapes inscribed on the pottery frequently symbolize luck and prosperity. For example, lotus patterns may represent purity and immortality, while animal figures like the lion symbolizes power, courage, and strength. Lions are considered protectors that ward off evil spirits and bring forth good luck. Furthermore, Yue celadon wares were commonly used as tomb offerings in ancient China, believed to bring fortune and well-being to the deceased in the afterlife.