The vase exhibits a finely crafted structure, characterized by its wide shoulders and elongated, tapering sides, topped with a compact, ribbed cylindrical neck. Its exterior is adorned with intricately carved scrolling foliage motifs, accentuated by meticulously combed incisions. A delicate bluish glaze envelops the vase, with the entire surface embellished with elegantly incised patterns of leafy vines and flourishing lotus flowers. The last photo taken under different lighting shows the occurrence of a iridescence(rainbow light phenomenon).
Period : Song Dynasty(960-1279)
Type : Meiping
Medium : Qingbai Carved
Dimension : 32 cm(Height), 5cm(Mouth Diameter)
Condition : Good(Minor damage in the mouth)
Provenance : Acquired in late 1990s from Hongkong
Reference :
1) Christie's London 13 MAY 2014 - Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art - Lot 284
(Price : 13,750 GBP / Type : Closely related)
https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5789406
2) Christie's Paris 15 DEC 2010 - Art d'Asie - Lot268
(Price : 17,500 Euro / Type : Closely related)
https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5396762
* Qingbai Ware
Qingbai ware, which translates to "blue-white ware," is a type of Chinese porcelain that was made at the Jingdezhen and other kilns in the porcelain-producing regions of China, primarily during the Song dynasty (960–1279) and continuing into the Yuan dynasty (1271–1368). It is known for its translucent quality and the pale blue-green glaze that characterizes most of its pieces.
The qingbai glaze was achieved using a small amount of iron in a reduction-fired atmosphere, which produced the subtle blue-green tint. The body of qingbai ware is typically made of a fine, white porcelain that is often referred to as 'artificial jade' due to its resemblance to the esteemed stone. The thinness of the body and the high firing temperatures used contributed to the translucent quality of the finished product.
Qingbai ware includes a range of items such as bowls, cups, vases, and ewers. The designs are usually simple and elegant, with an emphasis on the graceful lines and form of the objects. Decorative motifs, when present, are often incised, carved, or molded in relief and can include floral patterns, dragons, phoenixes, and other symbolic elements drawn from Chinese culture.
Over time, the technology and techniques used to produce qingbai ware evolved, leading to innovations in glaze and decoration that would influence later types of Chinese porcelain. Despite these changes, qingbai ware remains a distinguished example of the potters' art in Song and Yuan China, reflecting the refined aesthetic and cultural values of the period.
