Russet-Splashed Blackish-Brown-Glazed Jar, Song Dynasty

Lustrous blackish-brown glaze decorated on the exterior with lines of splashes of russet color. This jar features a rounded and voluminous body, with its shoulders gently curving upward to meet the lid. The lid is topped with a small knob-like handle at the center, creating a harmonious and well-balanced overall proportion.

Under microscopic magnification, the brown-glazed areas reveal gold-speckled particles, likely composed of agate minerals. This is a characteristic feature commonly observed in russet-splashed pieces from this period.

Period : Northern Song-Jin Dynasty
Type : Jar
Medium : Black glazed with russet painted
Dimension : 10.5cm(Height), 7.5cm(Mouth Diameter) 
Condition : Excellent
Provenance : Acquired in late 1990s from Hongkong
Reference :
1) Christies NEW YORK 13–14 SEP 2018 - A RUSSET-SPLASHED BLACKISH-BROWN-GLAZED BOWL AND COVER - Lot 1314
(Price realised : 13,750 USD / Type : Closely Related)
https://www.christies.com/lot/a-russet-splashed-blackish-brown-glazed-bowl-and-cover-northern-6159413/?intObjectID=6159413&lid=1




* Black-glazed ceramics in Northern Song-Jin dynasty

Black-glazed ceramics, also known as "black ware," were prominent during the Northern Song (960–1127) and Jin (1115–1234) dynasties. The creation of these ceramics involved the application of a rich, dark glaze, typically achieved using iron oxide. This glaze was applied over a stoneware or porcelain body, then fired at high temperatures to produce a glossy, dark finish ranging from deep brown to black. Notable techniques included the "tea-dust" glaze, which exhibited a speckled appearance, and the "oil-spot" glaze, characterized by small, iridescent spots. The high-temperature firing process was crucial for achieving the desired glaze effects and durability.

The design of black-glazed ceramics often included intricate carvings, incised, or molded decorations. Common forms included bowls, vases, jars, and ceramic pillows. These pillows, used as headrests, featured detailed designs such as floral patterns, animals, and mythical creatures. An example of this is a black-glazed ceramic pillow from the Jin dynasty, which features carvings of two lions. Similar pieces can be found in the Guanfu Museum, where black-glazed pillows depicting the Twelve Zodiac Animals are displayed. The combination of sophisticated glazing techniques and detailed decorative elements exemplifies the advanced ceramic artistry of the Northern Song and Jin dynasties.